Is rest necessary after egg donation treatment?

After a treatment such as IVF or egg donation, one of the questions patients usually ask is: how long should I rest? In this article we explain whether it is necessary to rest after assisted reproduction treatment and give you some recommendations.

How long do you have to rest after an embryo transfer?

One of the advantages of egg donation is that the treatment is shorter and the patient does not have to undergo follicular stimulation or egg retrieval. During the egg donation treatment itself, it is possible to lead a normal life, although some discomfort may occur, such as bloating, while the patient undergoes endometrial preparation. On the day of the embryo transfer, the patient can return to her normal routine, but she should follow a series of recommendations.

Depending on the patient’s history, the doctor may recommend a period of rest after this egg donation process, although this is not usually the case.

Recommendations after embryo transfer

Although it is not essential to maintain complete bed rest after an embryo transfer, certain guidelines do need to be followed to ensure the highest chances of success.

Avoid stress

Although it is something beyond our control, from the moment of the transfer until the pregnancy test, patients may experience nerves or stress until they have the beta hCG result. We recommend that they carry on with their plans and do things they enjoy in order to hold back the negative thoughts that cause stress.

Avoid physical exertion

Although the patient does not have to rest after IVF and can lead a normal life (go to work, go for a walk, go out for dinner, etc.), she should not make any significant physical effort. She should avoid intense physical activity for the time indicated by the doctor. This will considerably reduce the chances of the embryo being rejected.

No smoking before or after treatment

Smoking is very harmful to the development of the embryo and also to fertility when trying to achieve pregnancy. It is therefore essential to avoid tobacco both before and after an assisted reproduction process if the patient wants to achieve pregnancy.

No alcohol

Like tobacco, drinking alcohol before and during treatment can have a negative effect on the implantation and development of the embryo.

Postpone sexual intercourse

It is usually recommended to postpone sexual relations (as far as vaginal intercourse is concerned) until after the pregnancy test.

We know that the feelings and emotions of the days before the pregnancy test are fluctuating and intense, but we must try to manage them as best we can with the clinic team, family, partner and friends. If during these days you have any symptom that causes you worry or doubt, contact your fertility center.