Important Lifestyle Changes and Precautions After Embryo Transfer

IVF is not new to anyone nowadays. The success rate of IVF treatment has been increasing steadily worldwide over the years. 

Embryo transfer is the most pivotal stage in the IVF cycle. So congratulations to you for finally reaching this stage. For many, it has been the most difficult, long, and windy road to get to this point of embryo transfer. As you have reached this stage, you need to take several precautions and make lifestyle changes so that you can have a successful pregnancy. In this blog,  we will delve into understanding the dos and don’ts of embryo transfer to help out in the crucial phase. 

Activities to embrace after embryo transfer

1. Take adequate rest: Soon after your embryo transfer, you are advised to take bed rest, as implantation takes 3-5 days after embryo transfer. Do not exert pressure on yourself physically while avoiding physical straining activities. It is very important to keep yourself away from several activities such as running, exercise, or jumping so that you can give your body rest. You need to sleep for at least 8 hours to keep yourself healthy mentally and physically. 

Moreover, it is not mandatory to take bed rest completely. You can also rest within time intervals to keep your mental and physical state affirmed and balanced. Such an approach also helps reduce stress levels while stabilizing your body, which enhances the chances of a successful pregnancy. 

1. Maintain a balanced diet: whatever you eat will directly affect your fetal development as embryo transfer has already taken place. You have to eat healthy and feel like you are already pregnant. A healthy diet ensures that you also need to manage your weight so you can have your focus on eating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals. Try having your focus on consuming a nutritious diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins to keep yourself and your baby healthy.
   Adding to this, you should avoid having processed food or packaged food as it can bring complications to your case. Consumption of carbohydrates and fats can also lead to an increase in weight which is a problematic aspect during pregnancy. Always keep your diet in balance which does not give you any kind of discomfort and also prevents stress on your body.

1. Stay hydrated: water is a basic necessity but it becomes more important when it comes to embryo transfer or pregnancy. Keeping yourself hydrated improves your overall health which is highly effective in pregnancy after embryo transfer. Your intake should be between 2-3 liters of water on a daily basis by including various healthy fluids such as milk or coconut water. These contribute rightly to your daily fluid intake providing you with necessary minerals and vitamins.
   Proper hydration ensures that optimal cellular functions are maintained as it is needed during the early stage of pregnancy. However, it is recommended that you should avoid excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeinated beverages which impact embryo implantation negatively.

1. Follow your doctor’s advice: keeping yourself adhered as per the medical guidance or under their supervision is essential. You need to abide by the precautions provided to you and follow the medications as instructed post-embryo transfer. It ensures that prescribed medicines are taken as scheduled and all follow-up appointments are attended for routine check-ups.
   Advice by your healthcare practitioners are as per their supervision and tailored as per your situation, circumstances, and other factors involved. Thus, it is crucial to follow their guidance to have the best outcomes.
2. Keep positive and stress-free: stress management is an important and integral part of a successful pregnancy or post-embryo transfer. High stress levels impact your body which will affect implantation capabilities adversely.
   Keep yourself engaged in activities such as yoga, meditation, listening to sooting music or spending quality time with your family or loved ones. It promotes a healthy lifestyle and uplifts your mood by minimizing stress.

Activities to avoid after embryo transfer

1. Avoid Strenuous Activities: As it is recommended that you should take proper rest and avoid strenuous activities. Lifting heavy weights and exerting yourself in vigorous sports are prohibited post-embryo transfer. This activity could be a hurdle for the implantation process so it is advised to stick to light activities if you prefer such as walking, yoga, or stretching which are beneficial for your implantation process. 
2. Stay Clear of Extreme Temperatures: Exposure to extreme heat can be harmful post-embryo so try avoiding hot tubs, saunas, or overly hot baths. You should take a bath with mild hot or lukewarm water so that it does not impact embryo transfer. Such dynamics in the environment increase the risks of IVF failure. 
3. Limit Caffeine and Avoid Harmful Substances: You are advised to stay away from any harmful substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and any non-prescribed drugs as they can cause an adverse impact on your embryo development. It may also lead to major complications which can even lead to IVF failure. Moreover, the consumption of caffeine should also be limited or taken into moderation as per requirement. 
4.  Don’t Take Over-the-counter Medications: Before considering any medication other than your prescribed medicines, consult your doctor. Any medications whether herbal or over-the-counter medication can interfere or disturb the medication already provided. This can affect the development of an embryo and hamper IVF treatment. Thus, consult your healthcare expert before taking any medication, 
5. Avoid Stressful Situations: High stress is not good for your body and mind so it is better to remain stress-free as it plays a pivotal role in your pregnancy. It is known to everyone that high stress level leads to hormonal disbalance which is not effective during the pregnancy phase. So it is recommended to avoid situations of people who brings anxiety or stress to you. 
6. Avoid sexual intercourse: After your embryo transfer, it’s important to refrain from sex or anything in your vagina, such as tampons or douches, until after your pregnancy test.
7. Do Not Ignore Your Body’s Signals: always keep monitoring any changes or abnormal activity in your body. You should not neglect mild symptoms as you should pay attention to how you and your body feel. You can have mild symptoms such as mild cramps or spotting which is normal. However, if you face any major changes or discomfort, consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Final thoughts

Embryo transfer is an essential stage for every couple as it gives a ray of hope and expectation to everyone. You should consider every activity that should be embraced or not as it will directly impact the implantation process. Don’t compare your IVF journey with others as every person has a journey which they have to live. 

Keep yourself in touch with your doctor so that your progress is monitored and personalized advice is provided to you for same. It also gives you with right comfort and advice which proves to be fruitful for a successful pregnancy. Here at Aveya IVF Centre, we keep an eye on the process of IVF and activities during embryo development. We believe in keeping yourself positive and embracing the journey of pregnancy post-embryo transfer.

If you are worried about embryo transfer or IVF procedure. We at Aveya IVF Centre are here to help you with a free consultation.

Contact us today!!!