The transfer is the final step, the medical intervention that should complete the process of an In Vitro Fertilization treatment. The embryo is introduced into the uterine cavity, where if everything goes well it will implant and continue its development.
There are a number of considerations to take into account after this step to increase the chances of implantation, reduce possible side effects and promote a healthy pregnancy.
Should I follow any kind of diet?
Evidence supports the positive effect of a healthy, balanced diet during pregnancy and during pregnancy itself. As a general tip, after the transfer it is advisable to follow a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (washing them well if you choose to eat them raw), good sources of fiber, complex carbohydrates and proteins. Foods such as unpasteurized cheeses and fish associated with heavy metal content, such as swordfish or bluefin tuna, should be avoided.
It is also important to have a good intake of calcium and other vitamins and minerals, ensuring that you have a balanced intake of essential nutrients. It is best to discuss with your doctor whether any type of nutritional supplement is necessary.
Remember to stay well hydrated. It is recommended to drink water and avoid other types of sugary drinks, alcohol or those with excessive caffeine.
Is there anything I should take after the transfer?
At iGin, as in any assisted reproduction centre, we will make a plan for you with the medication or supplements you need to take during this phase, such as folic acid or progesterone. They should also recommend medication for pain (ideally, only paracetamol at the prescribed dose and not long-term).
Can I exercise?
Impact or strenuous sports activities should be avoided. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, complete bed rest is usually not necessary. You can return to your normal daily routine, but be aware that you should take it easy, get plenty of rest, and relax.
Very hot baths, saunas, steam baths or any activity that significantly raises your body temperature are not recommended.
Can I go back to my normal life?
The two-week wait between transfer and pregnancy test (known as the “beta-wait”) is a time to take care of yourself. Fertility treatment can be exhausting, coupled with the fast pace of modern life. And excessive stress can have an adverse effect on fertility and overall health. You can resume your normal activities, but you should try to deal with this time in a relaxed manner.
Is there a recommended position for sleeping?
There is no indication that one position is more advisable than another. The transferred embryo will not be affected by your body position during the night; it is nestled in your womb, in a soft, thick lining, ideal for implantation. So all you have to do is get comfortable and rest.
Can I have sex?
The usual advice is to abstain during the beta wait. It is true that sex may not affect the embryo and its implantation, but it can trigger uterine contractions, so it is not recommended.
Is it normal to have some pain or spotting?
You may experience some mild spotting after the transfer procedure and during implantation. Some women also have cramp-like pains or feel bloated. These symptoms may occur and have no bearing on the success or failure of the treatment. In fact, pelvic discomfort or cramping may indicate that the procedure was successful.
However, if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain or any other symptoms that you consider unusual, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.
I don’t have any symptoms… is that an indication that something went wrong?
If you haven’t experienced any of the above symptoms, don’t worry: a significant percentage of women don’t have these signs after the transfer. Positive signs are hard to distinguish from premenstrual symptoms, so it’s best to relax and avoid interpreting them as one or the other.
In summary…
Fertility treatment can be very stressful and when we reach the final phase, nerves are often on edge. It is natural to want to do everything possible to make the process successful and the best way to do this is to focus on taking care of yourself: eat healthy, avoid toxic and stressful substances (alcohol, caffeine, tobacco…), do moderate and gentle exercise, relax. You don’t have to stay in bed, but you should be kind and careful with yourself, both physically and emotionally.
And remember that if the result is not as expected, it is not your fault, nor is it due to anything you have done or not done. A multitude of factors can affect the outcome of the treatment, and the vast majority are beyond your control.