Updated by Progyny Clinical Team — May 2025
Many people worry about what they can and cannot do after an embryo transfer. The fear is if they do something wrong, the embryo won’t attach or fall out. That bed rest is the only way to keep it in.
Good news! That’s not true. Yes, relax and take it easy after an in vitro fertilization (IVF) embryo transfer, but bed rest is not necessary.
The embryo transfer
During IVF, the embryo develops in a Petri dish for three to five days, and the healthiest embryo is chosen for the transfer.
The embryologist removes the embryo from the incubator. Then, they use a vaginal speculum to visualize the cervix and cleanse the cervix with some sterile fluid. Typically, there is no pain during this, but a person may feel pressure. For those who have had routine pap smears, the sensation is usually very similar.
The transfer itself is a fairly simple procedure:
- After cleaning the cervix with sterile solution, a thin, soft catheter is placed through the cervix and into the uterus. This is done under ultrasound guidance for ideal catheter and embryo placement location.
- Depending on the clinic’s protocols, the catheter may be empty (a trial catheter), or it may be loaded with the embryo.
a) If a trial catheter is used, the embryologist will then bring the catheter containing the embryo from the lab and feed it through the empty catheter that’s in place. - On the ultrasound screen, one can watch the embryo get placed gently into the uterine cavity.
- After placement of the embryo, the embryologist checks the catheter under the microscope to make sure that the microscopic embryo left the catheter and was transferred properly.
- The embryos must then implant into the uterine lining on their own over the next few days, with the goal of developing into a successful pregnancy.
What about bed rest?
Back in the 1980s, after an embryo transfer, people were told to stay on complete bed rest for three hours and even rely on bedpans instead of going to the bathroom.
Several recent studies have confirmed that immediate bed rest after the embryo transfer is unnecessary. One study showed better pregnancy rates with immediate return to normal activities, compared to bed rest right after the embryo transfer.
For the first 24 hours
For the 24 hours following your transfer, it is generally recommended that you take it easy. You may have some spotting or leakage from the cleaning solution, which is nothing to worry about. While walking, using the bathroom, and going about your everyday activities are fine, there are some general recommendations you may hear from your clinic. These include:
- No vigorous activities such as heavy lifting (over 10lbs), bending, or exercise. These could raise body temperature and embryos do not like heat.
- For that same reason, no hot baths, hot tubs, or whirlpools. Showers are okay because they won’t elevate body temperature.
- Easy exercise is okay. For example, use the stairs but don’t run up and down them.
If you have questions or concerns, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.