Getting pregnant via in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be a rewarding yet challenging experience. While undergoing treatments may seem stressful, there are some things you can do to help ensure the process’ success. Here are some helpful tips to help you conceive via IVF.

One of the most important things you can do for a successful IVF experience is reduce stress. To help naturally reduce stress without overexerting your body with vigorous exercise, try meditating. Meditation can relax your body and calm your mind about the IVF process.

Many couples attempt IVF to conceive. To help ensure you don’t feel alone and to connect with others who understand what you’re going through, join an IVF support group.

After you inject yourself with fertility shots, apply a hot compress to the site of the injection. The hot compress will help alleviate the pain from the injection and ensure you are not sore during the days after.

When you’re undergoing IVF, be sure to take a folic acid supplement. Experts have found that folic acid helps reduce the likelihood of defects in babies.

During the entire IVF process, try to avoid high-impact exercise. For example, workout routines like CrossFit should be avoided. High-impact exercise comes with the risk of injuring your abdominal area, which can hurt your chances of becoming pregnant. Instead, try low-impact exercise such as yoga, walking or swimming.

While the direct link between caffeine and fertility has not been proven, many doctors recommend cutting back on caffeine while undergoing IVF. Caffeine causes vasoconstriction (the narrowing of blood vessels), so it may be dangerous for your baby (or your own reproductive organs).

The female in the relationship will be carrying the baby, but the reproductive health of the male matters too. Before you begin the IVF process, your partner should have a semen analysis. That way, you can ensure you are using healthy sperm.

Around the time of the transfer of the embryo, try going to an acupuncturist for a treatment. Some studies have shown that acupuncture can relax the uterus, reducing the chances of any contractions that would dispel the embryo. While the scientific effects of acupuncture have not been proven, acupuncture has been shown to be a great relaxation technique and a way to reduce stress levels during the IVF process.

One of the most important steps in the IVF process is finding the right doctor to work with. Contact in vitro fertilization specialists in your area, and do some research about each practice. Are the doctors certified? Do you know patients who’ve worked with them successfully? What other services do the practices provide? Have they worked with your demographic before? Once you find the right facility for your treatment, make sure you find a doctor you like and feel comfortable talking to.

Remember that while you’re undergoing in vitro fertilization you may need to have patience. The entire process is a long one, with many steps, and getting pregnant doesn’t happen overnight. Also, you may need to try IVF more than once. Often, the first embryo transfer doesn’t work, and couples have to undergo the process again. Try to remain positive and stress-free.