An embryo transfer is an exciting and nerve-wracking moment in your IVF cycle, especially as a surrogate. After weeks of medication, careful monitoring, egg retrieval, and the anticipation of seeing how the embryos develop, this is the final step toward a possible pregnancy. Once the embryo is placed in your uterus, the final stage of pregnancy is implantation. Implantation is when an embryo burrows into the endometrium or the uterus lining. This stage will confirm your pregnancy and successful IVF cycle. In this blog post, we’ll run through some ways to prepare for your transfer and after-embryo transfer precautions you can take to help improve your chances of a successful embryo transfer.
What Influences Implantation Success Rates?
Preparing for Your Transfer
Taking care of yourself before your embryo transfer is just as important as the precautions you take afterward. This is a time to ensure that both your body and mind are in the best possible state to welcome the embryo. Here are some key steps to prepare for your transfer:
Stick to Your Medication Schedule
As a surrogate, it’s crucial to follow the medication and hormone regimen prescribed by your fertility specialist. These medications prepare your uterus for the embryo transfer, and any missed doses or incorrect timing can impact the success of the implantation.
Stay informed and in touch
Keep open communication with the intended parents and your medical team. Stay informed about the embryo transfer process to reduce anxiety and feel empowered in your surrogacy journey.
Prioritize your mental health
Make sure your mental health stays at the top of your priority list. Engage in stress-relieving activities and consider joining a surrogate support group for emotional support and shared experiences.
Plan for the Day of the Transfer
Arrange for transportation to and from the clinic, as you may feel a bit uncomfortable or stressed on the day of the transfer. It’s also a good idea to have a support person with you, whether it’s your partner, a family member, or a close friend.
Create a Calm Environment at Home
After the transfer, you’ll need a peaceful and comfortable space to rest. Prepare your home in advance by creating a relaxing environment. This might include setting up a cozy spot with pillows and blankets, having books or movies on hand, and ensuring you have easy-to-prepare meals or snacks available.
As a surrogate, by taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally, you are setting the stage for a successful transfer and a healthy pregnancy. Remember, your well-being is essential not only for yourself but also for the precious life you are helping to bring into the world.
After Embryo Transfer Precautions
Many women wonder what they can do to encourage successful implantation. While it is largely down to nature taking its course, there are some things you can do to help improve your chances of a successful embryo transfer. Below are some after-embryo transfer precautions to take after the procedure.
“Just” Relax
OK, this phrase is overused and can come off as dismissive of true infertility issues, but in this case, relaxing is crucial. Although it might not seem easy after so much anticipation. More than anything, it is important not to worry too much about implantation and cause unnecessary anxiety. Make sure you get plenty of sleep and listen to your body; if you feel like taking a day off work, go for it. Go for a gentle walk if you need to get out of the house; either way, one of the most important embryo transfer precautions is to stay calm.
Stick to Low Impact Exercise
Gentle exercise like walking or yoga is fine, but you should avoid high-impact exercise. The reasons for this are twofold: vigorous exercise can stimulate uterine contractions and raise body temperature, which can compromise implantation. Therefore, you should abstain from intense workouts like running, cycling, or heavy weights during this period.
Take a Pause on Shaking those Sheets
As a gestational surrogate, it’s especially important to refrain from sexual activity during your IVF cycle and after the embryo transfer. Not only does this prevent a natural pregnancy from happening at the same time, but vigorous exercise or sexual intercourse can trigger uterine contractions, which might affect the implantation. To be safe, your doctor will likely require you to abstain for a couple of weeks until your pregnancy is confirmed.
Keep Your Cool
A raised internal temperature can compromise implantation. Therefore, you should avoid hot tubs, saunas, or steam rooms – no matter how relaxing they may be. Some doctors also recommend avoiding being submerged in water after embryo transfer, as it can cause infection.
Eat Like You’re Pregnant
Although the evidence about how diet affects implantation is unreliable, a good policy is to eat like you’re already pregnant. Consume a balanced diet with plenty of protein and fiber, and avoid high-mercury fish and soft cheese. In addition, of course, you should avoid all toxins like alcohol, caffeine, and smoking.
Remember You’re Not Alone
Waiting to find out whether or not you’re pregnant is an exciting time, but it can also be fraught with anxiety. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Surrogacy is a special path, filled with its own ups and downs, and it’s okay to lean on others for support. Your doctor and surrogacy agency are more than just professionals in this process; they’re your cheerleaders, ready to offer a helping hand or a listening ear whenever you need it. And don’t forget about your own crew – your friends, family, and fellow surrogates. They get what you’re going through and are there to back you up with a hug, a laugh, or a shoulder to lean on. All these amazing people in your corner make a world of difference, giving you that extra bit of strength and comfort as you take each step of this incredible journey.
If you’re considering surrogacy or just want to learn more about it, reach out to Fairfax Surrogacy. We’re here to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and provide the support you need. Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or are ready to begin your surrogacy journey, we’re excited to connect with you. Contact us today, and let’s start this amazing journey together!
