DENVER — New research presented at the 2024 American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Scientific Congress suggests that engaging in moderate to vigorous exercise during the in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing process can lower stress levels for patients without compromising their outcomes.
The randomized controlled trial involved over 200 women and found no cases of ovarian torsion in either the exercising or non-exercising groups. Additionally, the quality of eggs retrieved was similar for both groups, indicating that physical activity does not adversely affect the IVF process.
Dr. Maren Shapiro, a reproductive endocrinologist at the University of California, San Francisco, and the study’s lead researcher, emphasized that rest should not be the default recommendation for all patients undergoing ovarian stimulation. “Mild to moderate exercise that feels right for your body is probably fine,” she stated.
The IVF or egg freezing process typically involves two weeks of hormone injections to stimulate egg development, during which the ovaries may enlarge. This enlargement has led some reproductive specialists to caution against exercise due to potential risks of torsion.
Shapiro highlighted the significant stress associated with IVF—often described as time-consuming, emotional, and expensive—making it essential to explore ways to improve patients’ quality of life. “You’re putting someone through this super stressful process and then taking away their stress relief mechanism, which feels extra cruel to me,” she remarked.
The study compared stress levels between 107 women who exercised and 106 who did not during the stimulation phase. Participants in the exercise group were encouraged to achieve at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. They recorded their activity for two weeks following egg retrieval, using wearable monitors to track their progress.
Shapiro’s team advised against starting intense exercise regimens like CrossFit, suggesting instead lighter activities such as brisk walking or treadmill sessions. Stress reduction was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale, revealing that while exercisers experienced a slight decrease in stress levels, non-exercisers reported an increase.
Notably, participants who were already regular exercisers (79 out of 107 in the exercise group) showed the most significant decline in stress when they maintained their routines, while those new to exercise experienced heightened stress regardless of whether they exercised during the trial. “In people who exercise regularly, telling them to stop exercising really causes negative effects on their mental health,” Shapiro explained.
Dr. Vinita Alexander, a reproductive endocrinologist at Washington University in St. Louis, noted that although the study included a non-exercising group, most of her patients maintain some level of activity during IVF. “Most physicians will say walking, swimming, yoga, or light exercise is okay,” she added, while recommending against high-impact activities during ovarian stimulation.
Alexander was particularly interested in the finding that stress increased among participants who began exercising for the first time during the study, suggesting that maintaining a baseline of physical activity prior to IVF may enhance stress management.
Dr. Amanda Adeleye, who has treated cases of ovarian torsion from various causes, reiterated that while exercise poses some risks, the overall likelihood of torsion is low. She advises patients to continue exercising until about day five or six of stimulation but cautions against high-impact movements and sudden body twists. “Do what makes sense to you. And if you feel that the ovaries are moving around a bit, that’s probably when it’s time to stop,” Adeleye advised.
Shapiro’s research received funding from Apple Health, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, and Optum Health, while Adeleye disclosed affiliations with Carrot, Compass, and Roon.
Marcus A. Banks, MA, is a health news journalist based in New York City, focusing on cancer research and related topics. His work is featured in various prominent publications.
Related topics:
