The Effects of Walking After an IVF Transfer

An in vitro fertilization procedure, or IVF, is a fairly invasive fertility treatment that places an embryo into a woman's uterus. Having an IVF is the only way that some couples can conceive a child. Your doctor will explain precautions to take before and after the treatment. You will be required to be on bed rest for a short period after the IVF treatment.

Immediately After the Procedure

Most clinics have the patient lie down for 30 minutes before she is discharged. You could experience mild discomfort after the IVF, and your ride home from the clinic might be uncomfortable. Your doctor will most likely suggest that you spend the rest of the day in bed or stay in a reclined chair until the following morning. The effects of walking the day of the procedure could cause discomfort, and it’s advised that you rest. You could get up to use the restroom or eat, but stressful activity should be avoided.

The Following Days

Waiting for the results of the IVF can be a very stressful time. Keeping yourself preoccupied can help pass the 14 days. You may resume some normal activity the day after the IVF transfer. Light walking is OK, although you still should not do any strenuous activity. There is no reason to avoid walking, and there isn’t any evidence that extended bed rest will improve your chances of becoming pregnant.

What You Should Avoid

Although bed rest isn’t necessary following an IVF, there are some things you should avoid. You should not take baths or go swimming, but showering is OK. You should not do any exercise other than walking. Douching, tampons and intercourse are not allowed for the two weeks following your procedure.

After deciding that an IVF is a good option, a woman begins to go through the steps of the procedure. She is given drugs that will increase the production of eggs. Instead of just producing one a month, she might produce several. Tranvaginal ultrasounds will monitor her ovaries, and her hormone levels will be checked through regular blood tests.

The eggs will be retrieved during a minor outpatient surgery. The man’s sperm will be used to inseminate the highest quality eggs retrieved. The fertilized egg will become an embryo, and after ensuring that it’s developing properly, it will be placed into the woman’s womb in an embryo transfer.

Risks Associated with IVF Treatments

Although an IVF can help a couple achieve their dreams of a baby, there are risks. When the ovaries are being stimulated for increased egg production, some women experience pain, nausea, inability to eat and bloating. The egg retrieval carries the normal risks of surgery under anesthesia, and damage might be done during the procedure.