Patient guide
Post-Embryo Transfer Care Guide
What to do — and what to avoid — after embryo transfer to maximise your chances of successful implantation.
The First 24 Hours
Rest is recommended but bed rest is NOT mandatory. Normal light activity is fine.
Avoid After Transfer
- Heavy lifting (>5 kg)
- Vigorous exercise (walking is fine)
- Hot baths or jacuzzis (shower is fine)
- Sexual intercourse for 2 weeks
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac) — use paracetamol for pain
Daily Routine During the Two-Week Wait
- Continue all prescribed medications exactly as directed
- Stay hydrated (2–3 litres water/day)
- Light walks (20–30 min) are beneficial
- Sleep 7–8 hours per night
- Continue prenatal vitamins and folic acid
Common Symptoms After Transfer
- Normal: Light spotting (implantation bleed), mild cramping, breast tenderness, bloating
- Contact clinic: Heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, shortness of breath / rapid weight gain
Pregnancy Test
Use the blood (serum) hCG test — not a urine test — on the date your nurse specifies (Day 14 after transfer). Do NOT test early — it can cause false negatives from the trigger shot.