Post-Embryo Transfer Care Instructions
For couples undergoing IVF treatment, embryo transfer is a key step in determining whether they can successfully become parents.
During the 7–9 days after transfer while waiting for the pregnancy result, couples often feel anxious and uncertain. They may think of many unexpected questions or come across incorrect information online, making them feel even more unsure of what to do.
I am Yun-I head nurse Yi-Chun Chang. I have organized the 10 most common questions after embryo transfer and answered them here. I hope this information can support you on your fertility journey 💪
- Why should I rest for two days after embryo transfer? Is that long enough?
The first two days after embryo transfer are the key implantation period.
Therefore, on the day of transfer, you will rest in the Yun-I recovery room for 30 minutes before going home.
The purpose of resting at home is to allow both your body and mind to fully relax, avoid too much activity or strong emotional fluctuations, and support embryo implantation.
However, at home, you may eat normally, shower, watch TV, and use the computer.
You do not need to stay in bed all the time, because there is currently no clinical evidence showing that prolonged bed rest increases pregnancy rates.
- Are there any dietary restrictions?
It is recommended to eat more unprocessed whole foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, protein, and grains, with a balanced diet.
If you experience constipation, you may improve it by eating foods rich in dietary fiber and drinking more water. Stool softeners are not recommended.
Below are some food categories that patients often ask about:
❌ Not recommended: smoking, alcohol, coix seed, papaya, sesame oil, Chinese herbal medicine, ginger duck, spicy foods, barbecue, and fried foods.
⭕️ Small amounts are acceptable: coffee and tea.
- Can I exercise?
Moderate and gentle exercise, such as walking, can help blood circulation and support progesterone absorption.
However, exercise that makes you sweat heavily or become very short of breath is not recommended.
If there is bleeding, you should not continue exercising.
- Can I take a bath or go to a hot spring?
You may soak your feet in warm water, below 40°C, to promote blood circulation, but avoid overly hot water.
Soaking in hot water above the abdomen is not recommended, because embryos are not suitable for development in a high-temperature environment.
- Can I ride a scooter?
Basically, yes.
However, avoid bumpy roads and pay attention to safety.
- Will sexual intercourse affect implantation?
Sexual intercourse is temporarily not recommended after embryo transfer.
Even after pregnancy is confirmed, intercourse during the first 12 weeks should be approached with caution to avoid triggering uterine contractions.
If intercourse occurs, please use a condom.
- Is lower abdominal pain normal?
Lower abdominal pain is common.
Uterine congestion or pressure on the uterus may both cause lower abdominal discomfort.
- Why is there more vaginal discharge?
Supplementing estrogen or using progesterone vaginal suppositories can increase vaginal discharge.
Some people may feel inconvenience or itching. Please pay attention to hygiene to help prevent infection.
- Why do I feel sleepy?
High-dose progesterone is used to help embryo implantation.
Many people feel tired and sleepy after using progesterone.
These are normal medication-related reactions.
- How long after transfer can pregnancy be confirmed?
At Yun-I, we mostly perform single embryo transfer on day 5.
After transfer, please follow your doctor’s instructions for rest, medication, and blood test follow-up.
Pregnancy can usually be confirmed 7–9 days after embryo transfer 🤰
Yun-I wishes everyone good pregnancy luck and may your dreams come true 🤗
