Do’s and don’t’s after embryo transfer. Now that you have had the embryo transfer there is an anxious wait over the next few weeks. Most couples have found that these few weeks after the IVF embryo transfer are the most difficult period. Most patients are anxious of not doing anything that would harm their chances of getting pregnant.
What can I do after IVF Embryo transfer?
Do I need to bed rest after IVF embryo transfer? At London IVF clinic we do not offer patients a prescribed list of do’s after embryo transfer. But, it is important that you continue to remain reasonable about the activities you engage in for the couple of weeks immediately after transfer. There is no scientific evidence that has conclusively shown that taking strict bed rest would improve the IVF success rates. Hence, you should engage in light physical activities and take plenty of rest when possible.
Can I return to work after IVF embryo transfer? If you are working, then you should review the nature of work and check how supportive your work may be about you going through IVF fertility treatments. If you have a physically demanding job, then you may want to speak with your employer to consider temporarily changing to commitments that may be less physically demanding. Or you may want to speak to your doctor or fertility specialist and consider taking time off for the next few weeks. On the other hand, if you consider work a useful distraction, then there is no reason why you should not return to work after embryo transfer.
Can I exercise after embryo transfer? Besides work, engaging in light physical activity such as walking is acceptable and encouraged. However, you should refrain from excessive physical activity or new forms of physical activity at least until you have taken a pregnancy test.
What should I eat after IVF embryo transfer? You should eat a healthy balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids to maintain adequate hydration. Avoid sugary or fizzy drinks, smoking, alcohol or excessive caffeine intake.
If you have had fresh IVF or IVF / ICSI embryo transfer, then you may be still at risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. So, watch out for any signs and symptoms such as bloated sensation, sickness or feeling sick, shortness of breath. If you do develop any of these symptoms in the days following embryo transfer, you should inform your fertility specialist or clinic and seek advice.
Can I take any pain killers after IVF embryo transfer? It is generally best to avoid medications during fertility treatment, after embryo transfer and in early pregnancy. However, should you suffer from symptoms such as headaches or pains, then simple analgesia like paracetamol can be safely taken. You should also speak to you Doctor or fertility specialist if you develop symptoms that are not relieved with simple pain killers.
Besides these, you should continue taking prescribed medications and folic acid. You can continue with routine daily activities whilst taking care to be sensible with yourself. It would be helpful to manage stress in a healthier way. So, consider mindfulness or meditation during IVF treatment and continue after embryo transfer.
What can’t I do after IVF embryo transfer?
There are a few things that you shouldn’t do after embryo transfer. It is best to avoid alcohol, fizzy drinks and excess caffeine consumption. You should also avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous physical activity. Whilst there is no scientific evidence that suggests hot baths reduce the IVF success rate, it is still a common suggestion to avoid hot baths. The period after embryo transfer can be stressful, and so it may be helpful to engage in rest. In general, you should continue with daily life as normal, taking reasonable precautions.
Click here to find out more about the types of fertility treatment offered at London IVF & Genetics Centre. You can also join our next open evening in London to know more about your options and ways in which we can help.