Life after Embryo Transfer

Patients often ask for advice about bed rest, sexual intercourse, physical activity and work after embryo transfer. Bed rest following embryo transfer does not improve IVF outcome. Intercourse following embryo transfer does not reduce pregnancy rates, with some evidence suggesting that it may increase the implantation rate. Mild exercise is unlikely to have any detrimental effect on IVF outcomes. Conversely, there is evidence that high impact 'cardiovascular' exercise for more than 4 hours per week will reduce IVF pregnancy rates and increase miscarriage rates. After embryo transfer patients should return to normal daily activity, unless the work environment is extremely stressful or exposes the woman to potential reproductive toxins.