In recent years, more and more families have turned to assisted reproductive technology and surrogacy in Mexico to achieve their family-building goals through well-established medical care. At the same time, many misconceptions continue to circulate online. Among the most common concerns are whether IVF causes weight gain and whether the ovarian stimulation process involved in surrogacy leads to becoming overweight. In reality, these changes should be understood within the context of the entire fertility treatment process rather than being attributed to the treatment itself.
Does IVF Really Cause Weight Gain?
Many people assume that gaining weight during an IVF cycle is unavoidable. However, there is currently no evidence showing that IVF directly causes long-term weight gain.
During ovarian stimulation, fertility medications are used to encourage multiple follicles to develop simultaneously. Due to hormonal fluctuations, some individuals may experience temporary bloating, mild fluid retention, or changes in appetite. As a result, body weight may temporarily increase by approximately 1–3 kilograms. In most cases, this increase is caused by retained fluids rather than an increase in body fat.
Once egg retrieval is completed and hormone levels gradually return to normal, most people naturally return to their previous weight. IVF itself does not permanently cause weight gain.
Why Do Some People Feel They Gained a Lot of Weight During IVF?
Many individuals reduce physical activity and increase calorie intake while preparing for pregnancy because they hope to improve their chances of success. Others become overly cautious during treatment and significantly limit their daily activities. Emotional stress, changes in sleep patterns, and dietary habits can also gradually contribute to weight gain.
For this reason, weight changes often occur throughout the entire fertility journey rather than during ovarian stimulation alone. With balanced nutrition and appropriate exercise, most people can effectively manage their body weight during treatment.
How Can You Reduce Discomfort During Fertility Treatment?
Proper preparation before starting an assisted reproduction cycle can make the process more comfortable.
Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating a balanced diet, consuming adequate protein, and staying well hydrated all help the body adapt to treatment. During ovarian stimulation, exercise intensity should be adjusted according to your physician's recommendations. Strenuous workouts should be avoided, but prolonged bed rest is generally unnecessary. In most cases, light walking and gentle stretching are appropriate activities that may help relieve discomfort.
If significant abdominal bloating, rapid weight gain, or other concerning symptoms develop during treatment, it is important to consult your physician promptly to determine whether ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or another medical condition requires attention, rather than simply assuming that you have gained weight.
Located in the heart of Mexico City, Power Fertility Clinic is a fully licensed fertility center operated by a U.S. reproductive medicine organization and situated just 500 meters from the U.S. Embassy. Operating in accordance with U.S. FDA standards, Power IVF provides comprehensive fertility services ranging from egg donation and sperm donation to third-party reproduction, covering the entire process of U.S. egg freezing and U.S. IVF. The clinic features advanced laboratory facilities and an experienced medical team specializing in IVF-PGT (PGT-A), helping intended parents pursue healthier pregnancy outcomes. Mexican law permits gender selection and the importation of frozen reproductive tissues—including sperm, eggs, and embryos—and these services are available to all intended parents, including single individuals and LGBTQ+ families. Licensed to receive cryopreserved reproductive samples from overseas, Power IVF offers a secure and professional pathway for international fertility care.
