Key Insights on Fertility Treatments and Lifestyle Factors from Israeli IVF Expert

Professor Johnny Younes, head of the Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit at Poriya Medical Center in northern Israel, outlines crucial information couples should know before and during fertility treatments. Despite Israel's global leadership in IVF technology, many couples face confusion amid complex procedures and abundant information. Early diagnosis and proper body preparation can significantly shorten the fertility journey.

Common mistakes include delaying fertility evaluations, especially when menstrual cycles are irregular or short, or when there is a family history of early menopause. The ovarian reserve blood test (AMH), which is not cycle-dependent, provides a realistic estimate of remaining egg quantity. Smoking negatively impacts ovarian reserve and reduces IVF success rates.

Male fertility is often overlooked, though it accounts for about 40% of infertility cases. Comprehensive semen analysis should consider environmental factors like chronic smoking and heat exposure from laptops on the lap. Repeated semen tests spaced 4-6 weeks apart may be necessary to confirm male fertility issues. Contrary to popular belief, antioxidant-rich diets have not been proven to improve sperm DNA quality.

Israel generously funds fertility treatments, but some services are underutilized, including broad genetic screening for both partners, fertility preservation before medical treatments, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) under specific criteria, and emotional support services. Stress reduction through psychological counseling is linked to better treatment outcomes.

Several fertility myths are debunked: prolonged bed rest after embryo transfer is unnecessary and may reduce implantation chances; having a previous natural child does not guarantee current fertility, as secondary infertility affects over half of infertility cases; and popular superfoods like pineapple and beetroot lack scientific evidence for improving uterine lining or implantation.

Professor Younes recommends practical lifestyle changes to enhance fertility: complete smoking cessation for both partners, maintaining a healthy BMI, ensuring quality sleep, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, and engaging in moderate physical activity without excessive strain. He emphasizes that IVF is a marathon requiring understanding, medical rights utilization, and supportive lifestyle habits for success.