I am preparing for in vitro fertilization and want to know how I can improve my health to increase my odds for success. In other words, what, if anything, can I do to ensure the optimal conditions in my body, so the embryo(s) will implant?

Cheryl

A healthy balanced diet and avoidance of alcohol and tobacco offer the best options for success. Many of my patients report that they are taking nutritional supplements or vitamins. I suggest that they take only prenatal vitamins and that they avoid herbal supplements. Research into the efficacy and safety of these "natural herbs" has unfortunately not been published, and their effects cannot be confirmed. So my advice is to avoid any medication other than those provided by your physician. If you have been given a medication by a physician other than your fertility specialist, make sure your IVF team knows.