Introduction
Did you know one in eight women doesn’t get pregnant the natural way? This is the reason why assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF are popular worldwide.
In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is a series of procedures that help with fertility, prevent genetic problems, and assist with a child’s conception. During this procedure, matured eggs are collected from ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a culture medium in a laboratory.
The embryo transfer procedure is an exciting and difficult milestone in any IVF patient’s reproductive treatment. This last stage of the IVF process is full of uncertainties after the weeks of drugs and monitoring, the egg retrieval operation, and the anxious wait to see how the embryos develop.
Embryo implantation is the final step before a patient is deemed pregnant after the embryos have been implanted in the uterus. Following that, the patient must wait at least two weeks to know whether a pregnancy has occurred.
Following the embryo transfer during in vitro fertilisation (IVF), you could experience a sense of suspense. It’s normal to feel impatient as you wait to learn if it was successful.
It’s important keeping in mind that the success rate of IVF treatment depends on the traits of the couples receiving treatment and the clinic’s effectiveness.
Also read: Infertility Myths Couples Should Stop Believing
Nevertheless, you might be wondering what you should do following embryo transfer or what you should avoid doing that might increase your chances of a successful conclusion.
The likelihood of conceiving following an embryo transfer is somewhat unrelated to your precautions. However, there are some things you can do that might be beneficial.
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- Success in getting pregnant following an embryo transfer varies widely, and your precautions only play a small role in that. However, there are several things you can do that might be helpful.
- Post embryo transfer, limit intense workouts and strenuous physical activities.
- Physical and mental health can benefit from self-care and relaxation.
- Even though it might seem overwhelming, keep in mind that there are only two weeks between your IVF transfer and your pregnancy test. It is a short period that can be managed easily.
Things an IVF patient should do after embryo transfer:
Proper rest
Relaxing not only your body but also your mind is very important. Getting here already required a process. Your body has put in a lot of effort and will continue to do so for at least a few weeks more, if not that crucial nine months. You deserve a break, so take one.
It’s also time to stop your mind from racing with ‘what if’ scenarios. A couple of those possibilities have already been eliminated. Whatever provides you with a little peace—yoga, meditation, ASMR videos, mindless TV, reading a book, taking a few deep breaths throughout the day, or speaking with a friend —do that.
Eat well
Nutrition is the key to staying healthy, active, and nourished. It is now more important than ever. Eat nutritious whole foods, a variety of fruits and vegetables, and lean meats to keep your body healthy. Avoid soft cheese and fish that contain a lot of mercury.
Know more about Some Healthy Foods For Fertility and Pregnancy.
Stay hydrated
Although it’s always beneficial to stay hydrated, endometrial cells can now benefit as well. The most hydrating substances for your body are water, juice, and milk. Avoid caffeine and opt for non-carbonated drinks since carbonated beverages may contain caffeine and generally aren’t as hydrating.
Note: Smoking and alcohol are strictly forbidden.
Maintain the medication regime
In case you think it’s just a couple of weeks, you are mistaken! Your shots and suppositories aren’t finished yet. Progesterone is likely to continue in the mix because it helps the embryo implant in the uterus and stays implanted. Your doctor will let you know if there will be any changes to your doses or medications.
Be patient
In case you haven’t done enough already, give yourself a generous serving of patience. Oh, yeah. Anyhow, it’s fantastic to prepare for the new phase in your life.
Take a proper check of what product you use daily
Ensure that there aren’t any endocrine disruptors or other possibly dangerous substances in products you touch or put on your body. Examine the components in the soaps, lotions, and other items you touch every day. Make sure that they are free of phthalates, parabens, and bisphenol A (BPA).
Things an IVF patient shouldn’t do after embryo transfer:
Strenuous exercise
If your job requires heavy lifting or vigorous action, you should stay away from both rigorous exercise and activity.
Those spinning, running, and aerobics sessions will have to wait. Exercise with a high rate of impact can increase body temperature and potentially cause uterine contractions, none of which are advantageous for embryo implantation.
So, at most, keep it low-key with some light, moderate yoga, or a leisurely stroll. In other words, don’t do it if it bounces a ponytail!
Sexual intercourse
Yeah, that’s right. Sexual activity can trigger uterine contractions and perhaps prevent implantation, as strenuous exercise does. Though this is just a short-term situation.
A bath or swim
Adhere to the surface or stay afloat. A possible infection could be brought on by being submerged in a bathtub, pool, or at the beach. It is best to just avoid taking any chances of infection until you are certain that all is well.
A home pregnancy test
It might not be accurate right now to use a home pregnancy kit. You may already have enough to worry about. So avoid using it as it may give you false hope or unnecessary pain.
Final thoughts
There are still only a few weeks left. Remember to view this as a brief pause of lifestyle modifications as you’ve already been working on your fertility for some time.
And most importantly, maintain your serenity. For further advice on how to get through the two-week wait, which can be filled with a range of emotions like uncertainty, read this blog.
It can be quite beneficial to follow these suggestions and make the above-discussed changes to your everyday routine. You can get through this time by approaching the Pregnancy Test with a laid-back attitude and by telling people about your experience.
Still, do you have any doubts? Consult your doctor if you are unsure whether you should do anything during this time.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q1. What foods should I avoid after the embryo transfer?
Ans.
Don’t eat leftovers, too much sugar, canned food, carbonated drinks, processed foods, caffeine, alcohol, and foods containing mercury should be avoided post embryo transfer.
Q2. What helps the embryo attach to the uterus?
Ans.
A nutritionally-balanced diet with lots of fibre, protein, fruits and vegetables can aid in the embryo implantation process.
Q3. Does bed rest help implantation?
Ans.
Staying in bed doesn’t enhance the chances of successful embryo implantation. Indulging in mild activities doesn’t cause the embryo to detach. Resting just means avoiding intense workouts in your daily activity.
