Hey folks, just wanted to reach out and see if there are any fellow runners out there who are also going through IVF. It’s been quite the rollercoaster for me, juggling the physical and emotional challenges of both. Anyone else in a similar situation? Let’s connect and share our experiences, offer support, and maybe even some running tips to keep us going during this tough time. Your stories and insights could make a world of difference.
IVF treatment requires avoiding intense physical activities to prevent complications such as ovarian torsion. It is advised to refrain from sex until the beta test, but walking is permitted while running is not recommended.
Avoid running during stims as it can become difficult by day 7. Power walking is a better alternative. Listen to your body after stimulations. You can return to usual activities before transfer. After transfer, consult your clinic for advice. Personally, I eased back into running but took it easy. Stick to a slower pace than usual. Avoid rowing until after beta results are seen in the portal.
There are many runners in this group. I have had to limit my exercise before and after my egg retrieval, endo surgery, and embryo transfers in the past year, which has been difficult. Feel free to search the group for more information.
After each retrieval, I took a break from running for about two weeks until my period arrived. My doctor approved of using the elliptical, swimming without flip turns, and walking as alternative exercises. However, you may not feel up to cross-training depending on how you’re feeling. For FET, I avoided running for a couple days after the transfer but resumed normal exercise after that.
Running is strictly prohibited during the stimulation cycle and ER recovery period until your period, as it can lead to ovarian torsion, causing extreme pain and potential loss of the ovary. Any activity that jostles the ovaries should be avoided, including running.
I started walking every day when I lived in a warm climate. I would walk my dog 2 miles before and after work for stress relief. Being outside was vital for me. Walking became a daily routine, but I’ve also added running a few times a week since.
I struggled through it, giving up cycling during IVF and enduring a difficult pregnancy. Postpartum was no joke, but I eventually got back into it about 6 months after giving birth, despite the challenges.
I used to run a half marathon every year until I started IVF. I always checked with my doctors before running during different stages of the process. They advised me not to run during stims, ER, and before/after transfers. Once I got the green light, I would start slowly. During my first pregnancy, I ran about 60 miles, and now at 23 weeks into my second pregnancy, I’ve already run 90 miles. Pregnancy runs are slower and shorter, but as long as you feel good before and after, it should be fine. 
I took a break from running for 5 days due to stimulants, but resumed during the second trimester of my pregnancy.
I used to participate in marathons and half marathons before starting IVF, but switched to walking during the IVF journey that lasted for several years. The process involved numerous cycles and transitions, making it difficult to maintain my running fitness. After finally getting pregnant and giving birth, now I am looking forward to returning to running in about a month or two. During IVF and pregnancy, I found the 12-3-30 walking workout to be very effective.
I enjoy running, but I choose not to do it during IVF because I don’t want to risk losing an ovary.
I made the switch to the stairclimber for my workout routine.
During stims, I do not run (maybe just the first few days) and also allow myself a couple of days post-ER. Since I have DOR, I do not produce many follicles and therefore do not experience extreme bloating (only retrieved 6 eggs last cycle).
I am a runner who had to pause during fertility treatments. It was difficult because running was my mental health break. I switched to using a stationary bike slowly, but now I am back to running after a failed transfer. It’s the only positive thing right now.