Tag Archive for: Diet during IVF Injections

What is a trigger shot in IVF

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IVF Trigger Shot – In-vitro Fertilisation treatment commonly known as IVF consists of various stages. You will be exposed to medications and tests at every step. This is done to increase the success rates of the treatment. Medications are administered to the couple as per their needs. The most common medication that is administered to women comes in the form of a trigger shot.

In this article, we are going to understand what is a trigger shot in IVF, its need, side effects, precautions, administration, and its role in deciding the success rate of the entire IVF procedure.

IVF and Trigger Shot

Pregnancy is the result of the formation of an embryo when the fusion of egg and sperm happens in the fallopian tube. But what if the egg is not mature or in the worst scenario no egg is released by the ovaries?

This is where In-vitro Fertilisation and trigger shot comes into the picture.

IVF is the most suitable treatment option for couples who have the following medical conditions-:

What is a Trigger Shot?

The word trigger means to start or initiate and shot means injection. Combining these two we can say that a trigger shot is a hormonal injection that initiates the maturation and release of eggs by the ovaries.

The two most common trigger shots widely used for IVF are hCG and Lupron. hCG which stands for human chorionic gonadotropin is a hormone while Lupron is a drug.

Lupron is a non-hCG drug that is often recommended when the woman has a high risk of developing OHSS. Otherwise, hCG as a trigger shot is the first choice of fertility experts around the globe.

A trigger shot is not a necessary step in IVF.

It entirely depends on your requirements. The doctor will thoroughly analyze the ovulation process and other aspects to develop a treatment plan for you.

What is the need for a Trigger Shot?

Every woman has two ovaries which are responsible for releasing a mature egg every month for fertilisation. The quality of this egg and the well-being of the reproductive system decide your chances of getting pregnant.

In many infertility cases, the ovaries are not able to release mature eggs every month. This entire process of egg maturation and release is governed by Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Poor quality eggs mean poor chances of pregnancy. A trigger shot helps address this problem associated with IVF treatment.

For this, we need to understand what the IVF procedure is all about.

In-vitro Fertilisation is the process of fertilization that takes place naturally in the fallopian tubes on a petri dish in a laboratory.

For this to happen the eggs released by the ovaries are collected by the doctor.

Trigger shot makes sure the ovaries produce mature eggs which can develop into strong and healthy embryos. They are vigilantly monitored by fertility experts and get implanted in the uterine cavity.

Ideally, a trigger shot is used when:

  • The ovaries are unable to release eggs on their own naturally

Timing the release of eggs for the egg retrieval process for IVF

  • The underlying cause of infertility is unknown

How long after the trigger shot does it take for you to ovulate?

It will take around 24 to 36 hours for the mature eggs to be released by the ovaries after the administration of the trigger shot.

Does the trigger shot stay in your body for too long?

Typically half of the initial concentration of the hCG injection is active for 24 to 36 hours inside your system. The remaining half concentration will also come out of your system depending on your metabolism, method of administration, and body mass index. It roughly takes 10 days for the injected hCG to come out.

When to take a Pregnancy Test?

hCG is secreted after implantation of the embryo in the uterine cavity. This happens naturally to maintain the levels of estrogen and progesterone. When you take a pregnancy test after implantation it turns positive due to the presence of hCG in the urine.

But when an hCG trigger shot is administered to you there are chances that you will witness false positives on the pregnancy test kit.

So when is the right time to take a pregnancy test following a IVF trigger shot?

It is best to wait for at least 14 to 15 days after the trigger shot. To confirm the implantation it is best to visit your fertility expert after taking an at-home pregnancy test.

Early signs of pregnancy post-trigger shot may include breast tenderness, fatigue, missed periods, frequent urination, and nausea.

When to take the IVF Trigger Shot?

Timing of the trigger shot is extremely important in an IVF cycle. The fertility specialist will closely monitor the growth of ovarian follicles. Once the doctor is satisfied with the size of the dominant follicle which should be above 16-18 millimetres trigger shot will be administered to you. Then you will be asked to have sexual intercourse after a few hours to increase the chances of fertilization.

This greatly helps the doctor to schedule your IUI treatment in which the sperm is directly injected into your uterine cavity.

For IVF, the trigger shot will help decide the best time for the egg retrieval process. You will be asked to take the trigger shot 34 to 36 hours before your scheduled egg retrieval appointment. This promotes the process of meiosis: a process of cellular division.

This gives a good chance to collect all the good quality chromosomally normal mature eggs for fertilization with a motile and healthy sperm.

The timing of the trigger shot will vary from clinic to clinic and according to the development of your egg follicles.

Set an alarm, ask someone in your family to remind you, and put a sticky note on the refrigerator. But do not take it lightly, timing has a lot to do with the quality of eggs that will be retrieved.

How to take the IVF Trigger Shot?

You will need a prefilled Ovidrel syringe, alcohol swab, and gauze.

First step-: Clean the injection site properly.

Second step-: Take the syringe and place it on the abdomen, a few inches from your navel.

Third step-: Disinfect the area with alcohol to minimize the chances of infection.

Fourth step-: Direct the needle at an angle of 45 to 90 degrees and empty the contents in the syringe.

The doctor will personally guide you on how to take the trigger shot. If you do not feel confident in taking the shot yourself then you can visit your fertility expert for help.

Side effects of Trigger Shot

There are no harmful side effects associated with the administration of a trigger shot. However, pain or irritation at the injection site is quite common. You might also experience abdominal cramps or mild bloating.

A concerning side effect is OHSS. It stands for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. It is a result of swelling of ovaries which leads to fluid leakage in other parts of the body. Sometimes trigger shots stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs than usual which leads to OHSS.

The good news is that OHSS is not a common side effect.

If you have mild OHSS you might have the following symptoms:

  • Abdominal cramps
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Bloating
  • Diarrhea

Cases of moderate and severe OHSS are quite rare. Some common symptoms of severe OHSS are as follows:

  • Severe abdominal cramps
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Constant vomiting
  • Formation of blood clots
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Decreased urination

If you feel something is not right consult your fertility expert without thinking twice. Do not let your stress levels shoot up. IVF success rates are largely dependent on your stress management skills.

Is the administration of a trigger shot painful

The intensity of pain from a trigger shot largely depends on your sensitivity to injections. The method of administration also has a role to play.

Trigger shots can be administered in two ways namely intramuscular and subcutaneous.

Intramuscular means the injection is administered into the muscle. While subcutaneous means administration of the shot under the skin.

The specialists prefer to go for subcutaneous administration of IVF trigger shot which is less painful.

Sometimes the injection spot becomes red, itchy, or inflamed. But the discomfort lasts only for a day or two and these signs go away.

What to do if you miss your trigger shot?

First of all, do not panic and take some deep breaths. Visit your fertility expert to discuss the situation and further the line of action.

Find the right Fertility Clinic

The role of the fertility center in your infertility treatment journey can’t be emphasized enough. From tracking the progress of the egg follicles to retrieving the mature eggs the entire procedure demands a team of experts.

If you are looking for a fertility center in Srinagar then look no further. We at Imprimis IVF are here to guide you in your journey towards parenthood.

Visit us at Imprimis IVF, Srinagar for more information.

Final Words

Trigger shot plays a vital role in IVF treatment but it is not for everyone. Every individual is unique and so are the requirements. Do not follow everything that is written on the web and visit a doctor.

Let your doctor decide what’s best for your IVF journey. But if trigger shots are involved in your plan then make sure you are punctual and follow your doctor’s instructions religiously.

Trust the process and your efforts. Follow a healthy lifestyle and keep your stress levels in check. We hope this article by Imprimis IVF was helpful to you.

IVF Diet Chart: Foods to Eat and Avoid During IVF Treatment

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IVF Diet Chart: Starting IVF treatment can bring many questions, including one of the most common: What should I eat during IVF?

An IVF diet chart cannot guarantee a successful IVF cycle, and there is no single food that can make an embryo implant or increase IVF success on its own. However, eating a balanced, nutritious diet can support overall health, provide essential nutrients, and help you maintain a healthy lifestyle before and during fertility treatment.

Research on specific dietary patterns and IVF outcomes remains mixed. Some studies have reported associations between healthier dietary patterns and IVF outcomes, while others have not found a consistent benefit. Therefore, diet should be viewed as part of overall preconception and fertility care rather than a replacement for medical treatment.

What Is an IVF Diet Chart?

An IVF diet chart is a practical eating plan designed to help you maintain good nutrition during fertility treatment.

Instead of focusing on a “miracle IVF food,” the goal should be to include a variety of:

  • Vegetables and leafy greens
  • Fresh fruits
  • Whole grains
  • Beans, lentils and other legumes
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Healthy sources of protein
  • Healthy fats
  • Dairy or suitable alternatives
  • Adequate fluids

A healthy dietary pattern can support general health, while fertility treatment addresses the specific medical causes of infertility. The World Health Organisation also recommends healthy lifestyle measures, including a healthy diet and physical activity, for people planning or attempting pregnancy.

Does Diet Increase IVF Success Rate?

This is one of the most searched questions about IVF nutrition.

The short answer is: no specific IVF diet has been proven to guarantee IVF success.

Studies investigating Mediterranean-style diets, fertility diets and individual nutrients have produced inconsistent findings in people undergoing assisted reproductive treatment. Therefore, it is not appropriate to promise that a particular food, drink or diet will improve implantation, egg quality or live birth rates.

However, maintaining a nutritious diet can help support overall health during IVF and pregnancy planning.

Your IVF outcome depends on several factors, including:

  • Age
  • Ovarian reserve
  • Egg and embryo factors
  • Sperm quality
  • Uterine and tubal factors
  • Underlying medical conditions
  • Previous fertility treatment
  • Embryo genetics in selected cases
  • The specific IVF treatment plan

For more information, read our guide to [IVF Success Rate].

IVF Diet Chart: Foods to Eat During IVF Treatment

IVF Diet Chart

 

There is no mandatory list of “fertility foods.” Instead, aim for a varied and minimally processed diet.

1. Protein-Rich Foods

Protein is an important part of a balanced diet and is needed for tissue growth and repair.

Good choices include:

  • Eggs, when fully cooked
  • Milk and yoghurt
  • Paneer in moderate portions
  • Dal and lentils
  • Chickpeas and kidney beans
  • Soy and tofu
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Chicken and other lean meats
  • Well-cooked fish

There is no universal requirement that every woman undergoing IVF consume exactly 60 grams of protein per day. Protein requirements vary according to body size, activity level, pregnancy status, and medical needs.

2. Green Leafy Vegetables

Include vegetables such as:

  • Spinach
  • Methi
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Beans
  • Peas
  • Capsicum
  • Carrots
  • Other seasonal vegetables

Leafy greens also provide folate, fibre and several vitamins and minerals.

3. Whole Grains and High-Fibre Foods

Choose whole or minimally processed carbohydrates more often, such as:

  • Oats
  • Whole-wheat roti
  • Brown rice
  • Millets
  • Quinoa
  • Barley
  • Whole-grain bread

Legumes such as chickpeas, rajma, peas and lentils can also provide fibre and plant-based protein.

4. Fruits

Fresh fruits can be part of a healthy IVF diet.

Options include:

  • Apples
  • Oranges
  • Guava
  • Berries
  • Pomegranate
  • Bananas
  • Papaya
  • Pears
  • Seasonal fruits

There is no strong evidence that one particular fruit, including pineapple, guarantees implantation or improves IVF success. Choose fruits for overall nutrition rather than as a fertility treatment.

5. Healthy Fats

Include moderate amounts of unsaturated fats from foods such as:

  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Avocado
  • Olive oil
  • Groundnut oil
  • Mustard oil
  • Fatty fish that is low in mercury

Healthy fats can form part of a balanced dietary pattern, but they should not be viewed as an IVF success booster.

6. Folic Acid and Folate-Rich Foods

Folic acid is particularly important before conception because it helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects.

Women planning pregnancy are generally advised to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily, unless their healthcare professional recommends a different dose.

Food sources of folate include:

  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Beans
  • Lentils
  • Peas
  • Citrus fruits
  • Fortified grains

Your fertility specialist may recommend a prenatal vitamin based on your individual nutritional requirements.

7. Iron-Rich Foods

Iron is essential for making haemoglobin and supporting normal blood function.

Food sources include:

  • Lentils
  • Beans
  • Spinach and other leafy greens
  • Sesame seeds
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Meat and poultry
  • Iron-fortified cereals

The required amount of iron varies by life stage and pregnancy status. Do not take high-dose iron supplements unless advised by your doctor or after an assessment of your iron status.

8. Calcium and Vitamin D

Calcium and vitamin D are important for overall health and are particularly important during pregnancy.

Dietary sources can include:

  • Milk
  • Curd/yoghurt
  • Fortified dairy alternatives
  • Paneer
  • Eggs
  • Certain fish

Vitamin D deficiency is relatively common, but taking high-dose vitamin D without testing or medical advice is not recommended.

9. Low-Mercury Fish

You do not need to avoid all seafood during IVF.

Cooked, low-mercury fish can be part of a healthy diet. However, certain fish contain higher levels of mercury and should be avoided or limited, particularly during pregnancy. ACOG advises avoiding fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, marlin and bigeye tuna during pregnancy.

Choose fish according to current pregnancy food-safety recommendations and local guidance.

Hydration During IVF

Adequate hydration is important for general health.

Drink water regularly throughout the day, and increase your intake as needed due to heat, exercise, or other circumstances.

However, there is no established evidence that drinking a specific number of glasses of water thickens the uterine lining or directly improves embryo implantation.

If you have a medical condition that requires fluid restriction, follow your doctor’s instructions.

IVF Diet Chart: What to Avoid or Limit

Foods to avoid during IVF Treatment

1. Alcohol

It is safest to avoid alcohol when undergoing IVF and when pregnancy is possible.

Alcohol can have adverse effects during pregnancy, and there is no established safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

2. Smoking and Tobacco

Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.

Tobacco use is associated with poorer reproductive outcomes, and evidence indicates that smoking can negatively affect assisted reproductive treatment outcomes.

3. Excessive Caffeine

You do not necessarily need to eliminate caffeine entirely, but keeping intake below 200 mg per day is a commonly recommended safety limit during pregnancy. Remember that caffeine is also found in tea, chocolate, cola and energy drinks—not only coffee.

If you are unsure about the caffeine content of your usual drinks, ask your fertility specialist or dietitian.

4. Raw or Undercooked Eggs

Avoid raw or undercooked eggs due to the risk of foodborne illness.

Be particularly careful with foods prepared using raw eggs, such as some homemade mayonnaise, mousse and certain desserts.

5. Unpasteurized Milk and Dairy Products

Choose pasteurised milk and dairy products.

Unpasteurized products can carry bacteria that may cause serious foodborne infections during pregnancy.

6. Raw or Undercooked Meat and Seafood

Cook meat, poultry, eggs and seafood thoroughly.

Avoid raw fish and shellfish because they can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

7. High-Mercury Fish

Avoid fish known to contain high levels of mercury, particularly once pregnancy is established.

Your fertility team can provide guidance on safe seafood choices.

8. Highly Processed Foods and Excess Added Sugar

You do not need to eliminate all packaged foods from your diet.

However, try to limit frequent consumption of:

  • Sugary beverages
  • Sweets
  • Cakes and pastries
  • Highly processed snacks
  • Deep-fried foods
  • Processed meats
  • Foods high in added sugar and saturated fat

A balanced diet is more sustainable than extreme food restrictions.

Simple 1-Day IVF Diet Chart

The following is a general example, not a personalised medical diet.

Time Example
Morning Water + prescribed prenatal/folic acid supplement
Breakfast Vegetable oats/poha/upma + fully cooked egg or yoghurt
Mid-morning One seasonal fruit + a small handful of nuts
Lunch Roti/brown rice + dal + vegetables + curd
Evening Roasted chana/makhana or fruit + unsweetened tea
Dinner Roti/millet + cooked vegetables + dal/paneer/chicken/fish
Bedtime Milk or suitable alternative, if tolerated

Your calorie and nutrient requirements may be different. Patients with PCOS, diabetes, thyroid disorders, anaemia, obesity, underweight, food allergies or other medical conditions may need an individualised plan.

Is Five Meals a Day Necessary During IVF?

No.

There is no universal requirement to eat five meals every day during IVF.

Some people prefer smaller, frequent meals because they experience nausea, bloating or reduced appetite during treatment. Others are comfortable with three main meals and one or two snacks.

The important point is to maintain adequate nutrition and follow the dietary advice given by your healthcare team.

Can I Eat Pineapple During IVF?

Yes, pineapple can be part of a normal, balanced diet if you tolerate it.

However, there is no strong evidence that pineapple or its core can improve embryo implantation or increase IVF success.

The same principle applies to other foods sometimes promoted online as “implantation foods.” They can be nutritious, but they should not be presented as fertility treatments.

What Should I Eat After Embryo Transfer?

After embryo transfer, you generally do not need a special “implantation diet.”

Focus on:

  • Balanced meals
  • Adequate protein
  • Vegetables and fruits
  • Whole grains
  • Healthy fats
  • Adequate fluids
  • Folic acid/prenatal supplements as prescribed
  • Safe food preparation

Avoid alcohol, smoking and unsafe foods such as raw or undercooked animal products and high-mercury fish.

Continue your prescribed IVF medications exactly as instructed.

For more information, see [Embryo Transfer] and [IVF Treatment in Srinagar].

Can Diet Improve Egg Quality During IVF?

Diet provides the nutrients required for normal bodily functions, but no specific food or diet has been proven to “repair” or guarantee better egg quality.

Egg quality is influenced by several factors, including age and ovarian biology. A healthy lifestyle can support overall reproductive health, but it should not be promoted as a guaranteed way to improve egg quality.

If you have concerns about ovarian reserve or egg quality, discuss them with your fertility specialist.

Do I Need Supplements During IVF?

Not everyone undergoing IVF needs the same supplements.

Your fertility specialist may recommend supplements based on your medical history, blood tests, dietary intake and pregnancy-planning needs.

Commonly discussed nutrients include:

  • Folic acid
  • Iron
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin B12
  • Calcium

Do not start high-dose vitamins, minerals or herbal fertility supplements without medical advice.

IVF Diet and Lifestyle: Other Important Tips

Diet is only one part of preparing for IVF.

Take IVF Medicines on Time

Follow your fertility specialist’s instructions for hormonal injections, tablets and other medications.

Do not change the dose or stop medication without consulting your treatment team.

Stay Physically Active as Advised

Regular physical activity can support overall well-being. However, your activity level may need to be modified during ovarian stimulation or after specific procedures.

Always follow your fertility team’s instructions.

Avoid Smoking and Recreational Drugs

Smoking, tobacco and recreational drug use can negatively affect reproductive health. Tobacco cessation is particularly important when planning pregnancy.

Prioritise Sleep and Emotional Wellbeing

IVF can be physically and emotionally demanding.

Good sleep, emotional support, counselling when needed and realistic expectations can help you manage the treatment journey.

You do not need to maintain “constant positivity” for IVF to be successful. Treatment outcomes are not determined by whether a patient feels positive or anxious.

Is Strict Bed Rest Required After Embryo Transfer?

Routine strict bed rest is generally not required after embryo transfer.

Your fertility clinic may provide specific instructions about activity based on your procedure and medical circumstances. Follow those instructions rather than remaining in bed unnecessarily.

If you experience significant pain, heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty, severe abdominal swelling or other concerning symptoms after treatment, contact your fertility clinic promptly.

Can an IVF Diet Guarantee IVF Success?

No.

There is no diet, food, supplement or lifestyle change that can guarantee pregnancy or live birth through IVF.

IVF outcomes depend on multiple medical and biological factors. A healthy diet can support your overall health, but it should complement—not replace—evidence-based fertility treatment.

The WHO’s current infertility guidance supports evidence-based, patient-centred fertility care alongside healthy lifestyle measures.

Frequently Asked Questions About IVF Diet

What is the best diet during IVF treatment?

A balanced diet containing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, healthy protein sources and unsaturated fats is a practical approach. Your individual diet should be adjusted for your medical and nutritional needs.

Which foods should I avoid during IVF?

Avoid alcohol and smoking. Also avoid or limit foods with food-safety risks, including raw or undercooked eggs, meat and seafood, unpasteurized products and high-mercury fish.

Can I drink tea or coffee during IVF?

Moderate caffeine intake may be acceptable, but during pregnancy and when pregnancy is possible, keeping caffeine below 200 mg per day is commonly advised.

Can I eat fish during IVF?

Yes. Seafood does not need to be completely eliminated. Choose properly cooked, low-mercury fish and avoid high-mercury varieties according to pregnancy food-safety recommendations.

Is pineapple good for IVF implantation?

Pineapple can be part of a healthy diet, but there is no strong evidence that eating pineapple increases embryo implantation or IVF success.

Should I take folic acid during IVF?

Women planning pregnancy are generally advised to take 400 mcg of folic acid daily, unless their doctor recommends another dose.

Do I need five meals a day during IVF?

No. There is no universal requirement to eat five meals daily. Choose a meal pattern that meets your nutritional needs and feels comfortable for you.

Can an IVF diet improve my chances of pregnancy?

A nutritious diet supports general health, but no specific IVF diet has been proven to guarantee pregnancy or live birth. IVF success depends on many individual factors.

Final Takeaway: IVF Diet Chart

Following a healthy IVF diet chart can help you maintain good nutrition throughout fertility treatment, but there is no miracle food that guarantees implantation or IVF success.

Focus on a varied diet with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and appropriate sources of healthy fats. Take folic acid and other supplements only as recommended by your healthcare professional.

Most importantly, avoid smoking and recreational drugs, avoid alcohol, keep caffeine moderate, and follow pregnancy food-safety precautions.

Your fertility specialist can help you create an IVF nutrition plan based on your medical history, treatment protocol and nutritional requirements.

If you are planning IVF treatment in Srinagar, you can consult the fertility team at Imprimis IVF & Fertility Centre, Srinagar for an individualised fertility assessment and treatment plan.

Medical Review & Clinic Information

Medical Reviewer: Imprimis IVF Team
Last Updated: September 19, 2026
Clinic: Imprimis IVF & Fertility Centre, Srinagar
Address: 2nd Floor, S R Plaza, Hyderpora Flyover, Hyderpora, Srinagar – 190014

Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes and should not replace personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Dietary requirements during IVF can vary considerably. Consult your fertility specialist or qualified dietitian before making significant dietary or supplement changes.