IVF can be the solution for many couples struggling with infertility. Just like they put in the effort and time to try conceiving before choosing IVF, they need to continue putting in the time and effort during the IVF process. IVF can increase the chances of pregnancy but still requires the patient to take precautions for a positive outcome.
Wondering what we are talking about? Read on to know about the lifestyle changes and precautions you need to take after your embryo transfer in IVF to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
In IVF, the egg from the female partner and the sperm from the male partner are combined for fertilisation. After successful fertilisation, the egg becomes an embryo and is ready for transfer. On day 3 or day 5, the fertility specialist will insert this embryo or multiple embryos into the female partner’s uterus. This is known as the embryo transfer.
Embryo transfer is a simple, painless procedure that takes just a few minutes. It is an outpatient procedure and does not require any admission into the hospital.
Though a quick procedure, the embryo transfer, like any other medical procedure, can have a few complications, such as:
● OHSS - Ovarian Hyper Stimulation Syndrome can arise due to an overreaction to the fertility drugs given before the embryo transfer. In this rare complication, the ovaries will swell and leak fluid into the abdomen, which can become very uncomfortable and painful. In some cases, the OHSS can resolve on its own after stopping the fertility drugs, but some cases may require medical intervention.
● Multiple Pregnancies – If the fertility specialist transfers more than one embryo to increase the chances of a successful outcome, it can lead to multiple pregnancies. If more than one embryo implants or if the embryo splits into two before implantation, it can lead to multiple pregnancies. One of the common side effects of fertility drugs and IVF is multiple pregnancy.
● Others – In rare cases, blood clots can form and block a blood vessel. If anaesthesia is used, related complications can also occur.
After an IVF embryo transfer, it will take about 2 weeks to know if the embryo was implanted successfully, leading to a positive pregnancy result. During this time, it is essential to be cautious and make a few changes to your lifestyle. Here are some dos and don’ts you can follow after your embryo transfer:
● Timely Medications – It is common practice to give hormone injections or supplements to the woman before egg retrieval and during the embryo transfer. Ensure you take the hormones and other medications as per prescription.
● Healthy Diet – Your diet after embryo transfer is important. Eating healthy can help prepare your body to support the pregnancy. Include foods rich in folic acid, iron, calcium, fibre and complex carbs.
● Hydrate – Drink plenty of fluids to aid in the smooth functioning of the body. The body needs to supply more blood to the uterus after implantation to support the development of the fetus.
● Rest – Resting after embryo transfer is very important. Some women may require full bed rest, and others may require more rest than usual. Try to stay off your feet as much as possible. Reducing your physical activities, including exercising soon after the embryo transfer, is safer.
● Follow Doctor Orders – Ensure you follow all orders or suggestions given by your fertility specialist. Even if they may seem extreme, follow them at least until you take your pregnancy test. Experts in the fertility field know what actions can lead to what results; hence, they will give you recommendations and restrictions accordingly.
● No Sex – Avoid having sexual intercourse for the next few days or weeks. Check with your doctor before you resume your sexual activities. Sexual intercourse after the embryo transfer increases the risk of getting vaginal infections.
● No Hot Baths – Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and hot baths. The heat can affect the uterine environment and interfere with implantation. Exposing the embryos to such heat can also damage them as they don’t thrive well under heat.
● No Alcohol or Drugs – It is best to avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and smoking. Even secondary exposure to nicotine fumes can affect the baby.
● Reduce Exposure – Avoid hot tubs, hot baths, or hot showers. Reducing exposure to heat and other toxins can help improve the chances of a positive outcome.
● No Processed Foods – Avoid eating junk or processed foods as they can lead to bloating or constipation. Eating outside foods can also increase your risk of food poisoning and contracting infections. It is important to stay safe and healthy during this period. Food poisoning with vomiting or diarrhoea can have a negative impact on embryo transfer.
● Avoid Strenuous Exercise – Even if you are used to heavy workouts, avoid heavy lifting, HIIT, running, or contact sports after embryo transfer. Any exercise or activity that can add pressure to your lower abdomen or lower back is better avoided during the weeks following the embryo transfer.
The outcome of an embryo transfer is not controllable. With a few lifestyle and diet changes you can increase the chances of a successful outcome. Being proactive and taking measures even before you start the treatment can help influence the outcome of an IVF embryo transfer.
It varies from person to person. Reducing physical or strenuous activities and getting more rest than usual are recommended for all women undergoing an embryo transfer. In certain high-risk cases, total bed rest may be recommended.
Yes, avoiding foods that can cause inflammations and including foods rich in iron, calcium, fibre, and complex carbs can provide the body with the required energy and nutrients to support implantation and pregnancy.
If your doctor has prescribed medications to take after an embryo transfer, then don’t miss taking them. In many cases, doctors will prescribe hormone pills or injections to increase the chances of pregnancy. Medications to treat underlying health conditions are important, as missing them can trigger health issues and lead to unnecessary complications. Ensure you inform your doctor about your embryo transfer and confirm if the medications are pregnancy-safe.
Yes, stress plays a big role in conception and pregnancy. Stress can cause hormonal imbalances and inflammations in the body, which can interfere with the implantation or negatively impact the pregnancy outcome.
