How to support your recovery after embryo transfer | Progyny

Updated by the 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. Some assume 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, embryos develop in a Petri dish that is kept in an incubator. They grow for three to five days, and the healthiest embryo is chosen for transfer.

At the transfer appointment, 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. On the ultrasound screen, one can watch the embryo get placed gently into the uterine cavity.
4. 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.
5. The embryo must then implant into the uterine lining on its own over the next few days, with the goal of developing into a successful pregnancy.

What about bed rest? 

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine does not recommend bed rest after embryo transfer. A number of studies have not found benefits, and one well-designed study even found lower success rates after bed rest.

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. But your clinic will give you recommendations for what you should avoid, which may include:

• No intense exercise, such as heavy lifting, high-intensity workouts, and running. These could raise body temperature and embryos do not like heat.

• 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. 

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