Diet for a Successful IUI Treatment

Intrauterine insemination, also known as the IUI treatment , is often the first infertility treatment procedure attempted when a couple with unexplained infertility issues approaches an expert. This procedure is simple, safe, and cost-effective. For the IUI procedure, the sperm sample collected from the male partner is put through a high-speed wash and spin cycle to separate healthy sperm from the semen fluid.

Meanwhile, for a successful IUI treatment, the woman’s ovulation cycle is closely monitored to ensure the right timing for sperm transfer. Sometimes, the woman is put on medication and injections to ensure ovulation and the release of mature eggs.

Just around the time of ovulation, the sperm sample is transferred to the uterus of the female partner. This increases the chances of sperm meeting the mature egg in the fallopian tube, thus facilitating fertilization. The fertilised egg then rolls down into the uterus where it must latch onto the uterine lining and hatch and implant for a successful pregnancy.

Unlike the IVF treatment, where ready-to-implant embryos are transferred to the uterus, IUI relies on the natural fertilisation of eggs. Also, they must reach the uterus in time for implantation. For you to improve your chances of IUI success, eat foods that support conception and implantation before and after the procedure.

What to eat after IUI?

• Pineapple: The fruit contains an enzyme called Bromelain that is believed to help with implantation and fertility. Bromelain makes the uterine lining thicker and improves the blood flow there. Pineapple also has high vitamin C content, which is great for boosting your immunity and keeping you fit through the process.
• Fish, eggs, and nuts: All these foods contain selenium, a mineral that helps with reproductive functions and boosts the health of the fluid around the egg. There is also some evidence to show that selenium may reduce the risk of miscarriage. Brazil nuts are especially good sources of selenium. Walnuts make a great ‘nutty’ addition for their omega 3 and 6 fatty acid content.
• Sunflower seeds: A good source of selenium, these seeds also contain Vitamin E, folate, and omega 6 fatty acids.
• Dairy products: Be it cheese, whole milk, or yoghurt, you just cannot go wrong with dairy products. They have a plethora of essential vitamins (A, D, E, K, and K2) that keep you fit and ready for conception. Cheeses also have polyamine putrescine that actively helps with fertility.
• Spinach: Another immunity-boosting food, spinach gives you selenium as well as vitamin C. What makes it even better post your IUI treatment is that it contains folic acid too. Other green leafy vegetables too are good sources of vitamins and minerals, much needed for a healthy pregnancy.
• Lentils and beans: Protein, fibre, and selenium in these make a great addition to your diet. You can also add mushrooms to lentils and make a soup loaded with Vitamin D, selenium, iron, protein, and fibre. These nutrients ensure good digestion and hormonal balance.
• Cinnamon: A surprisingly healthy food for gynaecological health, cinnamon is not just a great contributor to metabolism but also wards off inflammation in the ovaries.

What NOT to eat after the IUI procedure

Just as important as it is to know what to eat after IUI , you must know the food items to steer clear of after the IUI process. Here’s a list of food items to avoid after the IUI procedure.

Raw animal products: Anything that can pose a risk of infection is a big noat this point. Raw animal products are a prime risk here.

Spice: Anything loaded with extreme spice is risky as it may irritate your bowels and uterus. After the IUI treatment, you must avoid spicy and hot foods. Instead, have mildly spiced foods that are easy on your system.

Saturated fats: Any foods rich in saturated fat or trans-fat are avoidable at this point. These include processed meats, red meats, and baked items. All these are detrimental to fertility.

Processed carbs: Again, common culprits are baked foods, most desserts, and snack items. These can be substituted with whole-grain dry roasted snacks, which are healthier options.

Alcohol and coffee: Since it dehydrates the body badly, alcohol is avoidable after the IUI treatment. Some doctors hold that a mere sip or two will not do much harm. Also, caffeine should be avoided as it narrows blood vessels when consumed excessively.

Conclusion

The IUI treatment is a safe, simple, and relatively non-invasive procedure that is often the first line of treatment recommended in infertility cases. Parents-to-be can boost their chances of achieving success with this procedure by paying attention to their diet and adopting healthy choices that are not just conducive to pregnancy but also overall well-being.