Are you also struggling with finding the embryo transfer success tips, and looking forward to the steps explaining what not to do and what to do after embryo transfer to increase success?
Embryo transfer success rate varies, and important factors include the quality of the transferred embryos and the age of the woman. In general, IVF success rate is higher for younger women; women under 35 have a 40–55% probability of having their first IVF cycle successful. However, as women age, their success rates may decrease, reaching about 13.6% for those over 40. The number of embryos transferred and the success rates of individual clinics are two other variables that affect IVF results.
There are a few tips and strategies that, if followed post embryo transfer , might increase the likelihood of success? To learn more, continue reading the blog.
Understanding Embryo Transfer
In the process of in vitro fertilisation, embryo transfer is said to be the most delicate and important step. It is the procedure of introducing embryos (eggs fertilised by sperm) into a woman’s womb. It occurs two to five days following oocyte extraction, which is the process of taking eggs out of the ovaries so they can be fertilised outside of the woman’s body. Embryos, or fertilised eggs, are transferred into a woman’s uterus during this surgery. This happens between two and five days after oocytes are retrieved—that is, eggs are taken out of the ovaries for external fertilisation.
Should the woman possess frozen embryos, the transfer could occur at different points during her menstrual cycle. Embryo transfers are an extremely effective option for people struggling with ovulation disorders, endometriosis, fallopian tube damage or blockage, tubal ligation, poor sperm motility or morphology, uterine fibroids, etc.
Embryo Transfer Symptoms – Day by Day
As the embryo attempts to implant in the uterus during embryo transfer, a variety of symptoms could develop. Every woman’s experience is different, though, and some might not even have any symptoms. Here are some common symptoms that appear day-to-day following embryo transfer:
Days 1–3(3 days post embryo transfer symptoms):
- The process may cause mild cramps or bloating
- The insertion of the catheter may cause light spotting
- As the body adapts to hormonal changes, you may experience weariness
Days 4-6:
- Mild cramping may be caused due to the embryo attaching to the uterus
- Light spotting, also referred to as implantation bleeding, occurs in certain women
- Progesterone can cause people to have increased body temperature
Days 7–10:
- Breast sensitivity and discomfort
- Hormonal changes may cause frequent urination
- Mood fluctuations and mild nausea (like the symptoms of early pregnancy)
Days 11–14:
- During this stage, pregnancy symptoms could become more apparent
- No symptoms at all
- Around Day 14, a blood pregnancy test (Beta hCG) can confirm pregnancy
Keep in mind that symptoms can differ. On the other hand, the absence of symptoms does not always indicate that the embryo transfer was a failure. Make sure you undergo a pregnancy test at the appropriate time and always pay attention to your doctor’s recommendations.
How to increase chances of success after embryo transfer
1. Adequate rest
The doctor will recommend bed rest after the embryo transfer. It is recommended that you relax and avoid walking as much as possible after you get home. Avoid running, intense workouts, jumping, and other physically taxing activities. Try taking a week off if you have to travel for work in order to relieve the needless strain of both work and travel.
2. Nutritious diet
Make sure your diet is nourishing and well-balanced, as it impacts your own and your unborn child’s health. The meals you consume aid in the development of the fetus if the embryo transfer is successful. Additionally, limiting the consumption of processed foods and foods high in sugar and cholesterol will help in avoiding pregnancy-related health issues.
3. Stay hydrated
Proper hydration is extremely essential during and after the embryo transfer. It helps maintain the proper blood flow to the reproductive organs, helps in nutrient absorption, keeps the hormones balanced, and promotes overall health and well-being. Eventually, staying hydrated regulates the body temperature and flushes out the toxins, which is essential for embryo implantation
4. Stay calm and relaxed
Extreme levels of stress affect the body’s hormonal balance negatively and can consequently cause several complications in pregnancy. Therefore, doctors advise to reduce the stress levels as much as possible while undergoing IVF treatment. Practicing yoga and other meditational and relaxation techniques can help you stay calm and at peace.
5. Regular follow-ups with the doctor
The patient is advised not to miss any follow-up appointments and do strictly as the doctor says. Avoiding certain rigorous activities, staying consistent with the supplements, and consuming the medicines regularly. Always consult with an expert for any consultational advice and guidance.
6. Monitor your symptoms
Examining each cramp or spasm after transfer is normal, but not all pain is an issue. However, you must discuss with your doctor if you notice fever, severe bleeding, or persistent pain. Additionally, you must pay attention to your body and identify what is typical for your cycle and what is unusual. Keeping a daily journal of your 3 days post embryo transfer symptoms may help you identify. An open communication with your doctor helps in seeking early assistance and support.
7. Avoid strenuous activities
In order to increase the likelihood of a successful implantation, it is usually advised to refrain from doing rigorous and strenuous activities following an embryo transfer. Heavy lifting, high-impact workouts like sprinting or jumping, and any other activity that could result in undue physical strain or injury fall under this category. In general, light activities such as stretching and light walking are fine.
8. Steer clear of alcohol and tobacco
Smoking and excessive alcohol use lower the likelihood of IVF success, decrease sperm quality, reduce fertility, harm sperm DNA, decrease the likelihood of a successful uterine embryo implantation, and undermine the effectiveness of reproductive tonics.
9. Get enough rest
Doctors motivate patients to avoid eating for two to three hours before bed. They also suggest limiting caffeine for at least four to six hours before bed, and try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night to increase their chances of becoming pregnant and having a successful IVF procedure. This is due to the fact that sleep promotes the rejuvenation of organs and other bodily metabolic functions.
10. Guard Your Mental Well-Being While You Wait
To safeguard your mental well-being, engage yourself in therapeutic activities like reading, painting, or spending time with close friends and family. If necessary, seek assistance from IVF groups or Pristyn’s counselors, who provide emotional support in addition to having a clinical expert available 24/7.
11. Limit caffeine and alcohol
Limiting caffeine intake and abstaining from alcohol and tobacco use are generally advised throughout the embryo transfer and IVF procedures. Hormone levels, embryo implantation, and possibly the overall success of IVF might all be adversely affected by these substances. It’s normally advised to limit or avoid caffeine during IVF, especially after embryo transfer, even if some studies indicate that a modest amount (less than 200 mg daily) may be acceptable. Blood flow to the uterus and hormone balance, both of which are essential for a healthy implantation, can be disrupted by caffeine. Also, during IVF procedure, especially the embryo transfer phase, it is preferable to abstain from alcohol. Drinking alcohol lowers the chances of a successful implantation and has a detrimental effect on the quality of the embryo.
At Pristyn Care Ferticity, we believe that the embryo transfer success rate and the success rate of the In Vitro fertilization procedure entirely depends upon the procedural method and follow-up care. Now, you must be wondering, how? Well, herein, we must understand that the people resorting to IVF procedures are already undergoing huge psychological distress, and sometimes the IVF cycles make it more difficult. According to a study conducted recently, waiting to get pregnant during the IVF process was associated with increased levels of anxiety. The medical staff at PristynCare tackles this problem by having a full-time support team on hand to respond to enquiries and offer emotional support, in addition to a clinical specialist on call around the clock.
At Pristyn Care Ferticity, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to maximize your chances of embryo transfer success rate and overall IVF success. Contact us now to schedule your appointment, and let’s take this journey together.