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Superstitions You Might Hear During IVF Treatment

ByTarin Hussain
Updated: 14 Aug 2025, 11:00 am
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Manjusha Goel, Lead Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital

When you’re going through IVF, it’s easy to hold on to little superstitions that bring hope. You might hear that eating pineapple core, sipping pomegranate juice or wearing warm socks could boost your chances. These habits aren’t backed by science but are still followed by many for comfort. It’s okay to follow them if they make you feel better, just remember to stick to real medical advice too.

Pregatips
Going through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) can be an overwhelming experience. With so many doctor visits, tests, and waiting periods, it's natural to look for hope wherever you can find it. During this time, you might hear all kinds of advice from friends, family, or even strangers. You may have also come across some quirky traditions or IVF superstitions that promise to boost your chances of success. These ideas often come from a place of love and concern. But not everything you hear is backed by science. Still, when you're trying so hard to get pregnant, it’s easy to wonder if there’s any harm in following these tips. They may bring comfort or hope, but it’s important to understand their origins and whether they hold any scientific weight.
In this article:

1.Eating Pineapple Core for Embryo Implantation

One of the most well-known IVF superstitions is eating pineapple core for five days starting on the day of your embryo transfer. The belief arises from the presence of bromelain, an enzyme in pineapples thought to reduce inflammation and possibly help implantation by breaking down scar tissue. Many individuals eat a ring of fresh pineapple daily on an empty stomach, hoping it will create a more favourable environment for the embryo.

However, no scientific studies confirm that eating pineapple improves implantation rates. It’s a healthy fruit, so there’s no harm in including it in your diet. But don’t rely on it as a magic solution.


2. French Fries and High-Sodium Foods

Another popular tradition is eating salty foods right after an embryo transfer, like french fries. This practice likely started because some doctors recommend a high-sodium, high-protein diet for individuals at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). It is a condition where the ovaries swell due to fertility treatments. Salty foods are believed to help the body absorb excess fluids and potentially reduce OHSS symptoms.

Over time, this advice turned into an IVF superstition that eating fries post-transfer could bring good luck. A salty snack might satisfy cravings and feel like a treat after a stressful procedure, but there’s no evidence it directly boosts IVF success. If you’re at risk for OHSS, follow your doctor’s dietary advice, but otherwise, enjoy fries in moderation if you like them.




3. Pomegranate Juice for Uterine Health

Drinking pomegranate juice before and after an embryo transfer is another IVF superstition you might hear about. Pomegranate is packed with antioxidants and vitamins. Some believe it can thicken the uterine lining and improve egg quality, both of which could support implantation. The idea is that a healthier uterine environment might make it easier for the embryo to settle in. Pomegranate is already a popular fruit in Indian households linked to good health and vitality, so this superstition might feel familiar.
However, like other IVF myths, there’s no solid research to back up its effectiveness for implantation. That said, pomegranate juice is nutritious, so it can be a great addition to a balanced diet during your IVF journey.


4. Staying Hydrated with Extra Water

You might have heard that drinking more than the usual amount of water (over 2 litres a day) after an embryo transfer can help with implantation. The thinking behind this is that staying well-hydrated supports blood flow to the uterus, creating a better environment for the embryo to implant. Proper hydration is important during pregnancy and fertility treatments, as it keeps your body functioning optimally. In India’s hot weather, staying hydrated becomes even more important. That’s why this advice might feel especially relevant.
Although drinking enough water is always a good idea, there's no evidence that guzzling extra amounts directly improves IVF outcomes. Aim to stay hydrated as part of a healthy lifestyle, but don’t feel pressured to overdo it.


5. Keeping Feet Warm with Cosy Socks

Wearing warm or themed socks during an embryo transfer is a fun and comforting tradition. Some believe that keeping your feet warm makes sure blood flow stays focused on your uterus rather than being diverted to warm your feet. Many individuals choose socks with cheerful designs to boost their mood. There’s no scientific proof that warm socks improve IVF success, but they can add a touch of positivity during a nerve-wracking time.


The Role of a Healthy Lifestyle

These IVF superstitions are charming and may offer emotional support, but they don’t replace evidence-based practices for IVF success. So what does science suggest? You should mainly focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support your fertility. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which provide the nutrients your body needs.

Maintaining a healthy weight is also important, as being underweight or overweight can affect fertility. It’s also best to avoid smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs to protect egg and sperm quality. Many doctors recommend starting a prenatal vitamin to support early foetal development. But make sure to always consult your doctor before adding any supplements to your routine.

These IVF superstitions may not be backed by science, but they often bring comfort and a sense of control during an emotional journey. And honestly, a bit of hope can go a long way. Still, it's important for you to balance these traditions with medical advice from your fertility specialist. Superstitions should never replace a treatment plan that's tailored to your unique health needs.


FAQs on Superstitions You Might Hear During IVF Treatment


  1. Why is wearing cosy socks considered an IVF superstition?
    People think warm feet improve blood flow to the uterus. It’s a comforting superstition, but there's no medical evidence for it.
  2. Is it okay to follow IVF superstitions for emotional support?
    Yes, as long as you understand they’re just superstitions. If they bring you peace, it’s perfectly fine to follow them alongside proper care.
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