Lupron IVF – Secrets to Coping with Side Effects
Headaches, tingling feet, insomnia, and hot flashes. You certainly didn’t sign up for these, but they are the unavoidable side effects of the drug Lupron. IVF cycles require total control over your hormone levels and your reproductive system’s functions in order to create a hospitable environment for ovarian stimulation. Lupron is the GnRH-agonist (gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist) that suppresses the LH surge until the follicles mature. In other words, Lupron puts your ovaries to sleep so that you do not ovulate before the egg retrieval.
While the drug is relatively harmless, Lupron tends to make women experience menopause-like symptoms because of the crash in estrogen levels. The side effects of Lupron vary from woman to woman; some women go through a cycle without feeling any discomfort, while others experience the full regalia of menopause symptoms – nausea, hot flashes, burning sensations, etc. The intensity and duration of the side effects also vary. Most women no longer feel them once they stop taking Lupron. Although you cannot stop taking Lupron until your doctor says so, there are ways to reduce its side effects.
Acupuncture
Aside from increasing the number of mature eggs and enhancing the overall success of the IVF cycle, acupuncture can also suppress the side effects of Lupron, particularly the hot flashes. Experts are not sure if this happens because acupuncture makes you relaxed or if it is the result of treatment itself. In any case, it wouldn’t hurt to give it a try, and a number of insurance plans cover acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine.
Exercise
Never underestimate exercise’s ability to affect your overall well-being. Anecdotal evidence shows that exercise can improve the whole gamut of Lupron side effects, from the mood swings to the sleep disturbances. Try exercise for thirty minutes a day, but don’t over-exert yourself. Practices like yoga and gentle walking are good choices.
Flaxseed oil
Milled flax and flaxseed oil contain substances that reduce hot flashes and breast pain if used every day. Flaxseed also contains omega-3 fatty acids, a type of fat that aids in mood stabilization because of its effects on neuronal functions.
Deep breathing techniques
Depression and other uncomfortable side effects of Lupron can also be reduced by relaxation techniques and deep-breathing exercises. Try this deep breathing technique whenever you feel a hot flash coming: breath slowly through your noise and count from one to five. Exhale slowly through your mouth, counting again from one to five.
Valerian root tea
Valerian root tea is an herbal remedy that helps relieve anxiety and induces relaxation. This is a good tonic to help you get through any stressful time and it also has been known to boost fertility. Consult your doctor before you take any herbal remedies.
Melatonin
Insomnia is a troublesome side effect to deal with, but melatonin can help you sleep on time. Melatonin is the hormone produced by the body to trigger sleepiness at night. It is available in small doses and can help you get back to your regular sleep patterns.
