Positive hCG Test in IVF: Foods to Avoid for a Healthy Pregnancy


IVF, In Vitro Fertilization, is a fertility treatment comprising several stages. It is no less than a blessing in disguise for people struggling with infertility issues wanting to embark on their parenthood journey. One of the many steps in the process is a pregnancy test, medically known as hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) test. It is usually performed 12-14 days after the embryo transfer, and the result is considered positive when the hCG levels are more significant than 5mIU/mL.

After the pregnancy confirmation, there is a wave of happiness and excitement among the parents-to-be and their family. However, this is the time when it gets real for the mothers. Thus, the best IVF doctor in India advises pregnant women to be extra careful with what they do and what they eat. In this blog, we will look into some foods pregnant women should avoid after a positive beta hCG test.

  • Raw Seafood

We know many of you might be seafood lovers. However, for the new love of your life, you will have to avoid undercooked or raw seafood like oysters and sushi. These foods can increase the chances of food-associated diseases like listeria or salmonella, and we are sure you don’t want to risk anything for your and the baby’s health for now.

  • Semi-Cooked Eggs

Do not consume undercooked or semi-cooked eggs. The reason is the same as that of raw seafood: staying at risk of food-associated diseases like salmonella during trimesters is unhealthy.

  • Unpasteurized Dairy

Dairy or milk products that are not exposed to high temperatures, i.e., unpasteurized, might have harmful bacteria like E. Coli and listeria. These bacteria might put you at risk for foodborne infections or diseases. So, be careful!

  • Excessive Caffeine

Well, nothing is bad when consumed in the correct quantity. So, make sure to consume a limited amount of caffeine (you can also discuss the intake limit with your medical professional at the best IVF center in India). Excessive consumption increases the chances of miscarriage, and thus, it is best to switch to decaffeinated drinks.

  • Alcohol

Limiting or avoiding alcohol altogether during the trimesters is the best decision you can take for yourself and the unborn. It is because the contents of alcohol might disturb the normal development of your baby, increasing the chances of severe birth defects.

  • Drinks and Food High in Sugar

Foods and drinks that are high in sugar might put you at a risk of unhealthy weight gain, ultimately increasing the chances of gestational diabetes. This condition is not suitable for you and the baby; therefore, choose your options wisely.

  • Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables

Any produce you consume should be washed under flowing water to eliminate any bacteria or pesticide present on its surface. These bacteria can be unhealthy for the baby and you.

Conclusion

When undergoing IVF treatment in India, doctors recommend several lifestyle modifications, but the need to be extra careful arises when you finally conceive. So, congratulations on the news, and make sure to have a healthy and nutritious diet, which is necessary for the development and health of your baby.