Exercise during fertility treatments - what is the verdict?

I recently had the opportunity to comment on a fascinating study from my alma mater, UCSF, about exercise during ovarian stimulation for egg freezing or IVF, featured in Medscape. Exercise and fertility treatments can be a tricky combination, as ovarian stimulation causes the ovaries to enlarge, sometimes making them prone to a painful condition called ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists and cuts off its own blood supply—a rare but serious emergency.

Most reproductive endocrinologists (REIs), myself included, usually advise patients to reduce or modify their exercise during this time. I typically recommend that my patients avoid high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or any activities with sudden movements that might jostle the ovaries. However, I understand the importance of staying active, so I generally suggest light to moderate exercise, particularly activities with controlled, single-directional movements like walking, jogging, or stationary cycling.

That’s why I was so excited about UCSF's recent study, which found no significant increase in ovarian torsion risk for women who exercised compared to those who didn’t during ovarian stimulation. Although ovarian torsion is rare, and the study sample size may not be large enough to fully determine safety, this research adds to the limited data available on exercise during fertility treatments.

Another highlight from the study was its findings on exercise as a stress-reliever during ovarian stimulation. Studies, including my own, have shown that people undergoing infertility treatment often experience high levels of stress—sometimes even higher than those with other chronic health conditions. This is true for those freezing their eggs, as well. UCSF's study found that women who exercised even before starting ovarian stimulation saw the greatest stress-relief benefits if they continued light exercise during treatment.

 The takeaway? If exercise is an important part of your life, have an open discussion with your REI about your options. Staying active, when done safely, can not only support physical health but also help reduce stress during what can be an emotionally challenging process.