Hi everyone, I’m currently on my IVF journey and something that’s been weighing on my mind (pun intended) is the unexpected weight gain I’ve experienced. It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions dealing with the physical changes while also navigating the ups and downs of fertility treatments. Has anyone else experienced this? I’d love to hear your stories, tips, and support as we navigate this aspect of IVF together.
Since starting my IVF journey, I have also gained around 10 pounds. I believe this weight gain is not beneficial to my infertility situation, so I make an effort to shed a few pounds in between IVF cycles by walking more, opting for water over sugary drinks, and reducing my carb intake. I struggle with portion control due to stress eating, especially with my demanding job and infertility stress. If I could eliminate stress eating and adhere to a healthier calorie-restricted diet, I believe my weight loss efforts would be more effective.
Walking consistently has made the biggest impact on my health, more so than my diet.
I understand how you feel, OP! After multiple unsuccessful IUI attempts followed by a failed IVF cycle turned into another IUI failure, I have gained at least 20 pounds (I stopped weighing myself). My reproductive endocrinologist suggested taking a break this month before starting estrogen priming at the end of my current cycle to prepare for another IVF attempt. She advised me to limit intense exercise, although walking is okay, and recommended following a Mediterranean diet with regular fish consumption. Despite trying to stay healthy and active with 10k steps a day, I really miss my HIIT classes and hot Pilates.
I feel the same way, sending hugs to you! 
I am facing the same situation! My clothes are no longer fitting and despite being active, I don’t think exercise alone can solve it. It seems your hormones just need time to go back to normal. I am also experiencing terrible acne for the first time and I doubt washing my face more will make a difference. Sending you warm hugs and hoping you find confidence and self-love.
During 3 consecutive months (June, July, August), I gained 10lbs but have managed to lose some of it. I am working on getting the rest off before my FET. Focus on protein and walking. Walking at a relaxed pace during your stim cycle is beneficial. I usually walk 3-5 miles a day on a walking pad, sometimes wearing a weighted vest. Starting with half an hour a day and gradually increasing will bring numerous benefits like improved digestion and better sleep.
I have yet to undergo IVF due to financial reasons, but I have managed to lose nearly 50 pounds in the past year. Personally, I have found success by simply using the Lose It app to track my calories and ensuring I consume fewer calories than I burn. Consistently eating 500 fewer calories each day can lead to a sustainable one-pound weight loss per week. While I may not achieve this rate due to my love for food and life’s challenges, I am content as long as I see a gradual decrease on the scale each month. Keep in mind that if you have recently undergone a retrieval, some weight gain may be due to water retention from medications, and it may naturally decrease over time.
GLP-1s work great, no judgment if you disagree. I pay for Zepbound directly from the manufacturer, so I don’t have to deal with insurance, just need a prescription.