Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

Rest and Physical Activity

• You can resume normal daily activities 10–15 minutes after the procedure.
• Complete bed rest is not recommended due to risks such as blood clots and stress.
• Avoid intense physical exertion, lifting heavy objects, running, jumping, or standing for prolonged periods.

Bathroom Use and Hygiene

• Using the bathroom is completely safe and does not affect embryo placement.
• Squatting toilets are permitted.
• Avoid straining during bowel movements; stay hydrated, eat high-fiber foods, or use doctor-approved laxatives if constipated.
• Maintain proper genital hygiene and avoid vaginal douching or tampons.

Sexual Activity

• Avoid intercourse for at least 3–14 days post-transfer.
• Choose positions that avoid deep penetration or pressure on the abdomen.
• Report any pain, spotting, or discomfort to your doctor.
• Use non-spermicidal lubricants if needed.
• Consider non-intercourse intimacy such as hugging or massage if you're concerned.

Returning to Work

• If your job involves heavy lifting or standing for long periods, it's best to take time off.
• For desk jobs, returning to work the next day is generally safe.
• Take breaks to stretch and walk, and avoid long periods of inactivity.
• If your job is stressful, consider taking a few days off after the procedure.
• Wear loose clothing and eat nutritious snacks at regular intervals.

Travel

• Travel is generally safe post-transfer if done comfortably.
• Avoid travel in the first few hours after the procedure.
• Use pillows for lumbar support and take breaks to walk during long journeys.
• Air travel is typically safe; however, avoid long flights within the first 48–72 hours if possible.
• Avoid lifting heavy luggage and stay hydrated throughout the trip.

Exercise

• Begin light walking two days after the transfer.
• Gentle stretching, yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises are encouraged.
• Avoid high-impact activities, weightlifting, aerobic exercises, or abdominal workouts.
• Swimming, hot tubs, and saunas are discouraged due to infection risk.

Nutrition
Recommended Foods:

• Lean proteins (chicken, fish like salmon, eggs, lentils, beans)
• Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil)
• Complex carbs (whole grains, brown rice, quinoa, oats, sweet potatoes)
• Iron-rich foods (spinach, kale, red meat, lentils)
• Folate and B12-rich foods (leafy greens, citrus fruits, peas, green beans)
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• High-fiber foods
• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods (ginger, turmeric, berries, omega-3-rich foods)
• Water (2–3 liters daily)

Foods to Avoid:

• Mercury-rich fish
• Unpasteurized dairy
• Raw/undercooked meat and eggs
• Processed foods (sausages, deli meats)
• Junk food (chips, snacks)
• Trans fats
• Excessive caffeine (>200 mg/day)
• Alcoholic beverages

 

Spotting or Bleeding Post-Transfer

Spotting is common and may result from hormonal changes, embryo implantation, or vaginal suppositories. It is not a definitive sign of failed pregnancy. If bleeding occurs:

• Stay calm
• Do not stop medications without consulting your doctor
• Rest
• Avoid heavy lifting and sexual activity
• Contact the clinic or reach out via phone or social media for guidance

 

Illness After Transfer

Mild illnesses such as colds or flu usually do not affect embryo implantation.

• Stay hydrated and get enough rest
• Use natural remedies like saline nasal spray or honey-lemon tea
• Avoid self-medicating without your doctor’s approval
• Consult a doctor if you have fever, persistent cough, or concerning symptoms
• Maintain a vitamin-rich diet and consult about Vitamin C or supplements

 

Progesterone Suppository Guidelines

• Follow the prescribed schedule to maintain consistent hormone levels
• Wash hands before and after use
• Choose a comfortable position (lying down, leg raised, or squatting)
• Insert the suppository gently about 3–5 cm into the vagina
• Remain lying down for 10–15 minutes post-insertion
• Nighttime insertion is ideal
• Use panty liners to manage discharge
• Check storage requirements (some may need refrigeration)
• Common side effects include mild irritation or odor—report anything unusual to your doctor
• Avoid tampons, douching, or vaginal products unless directed by your doctor

 

Progesterone Injection Guidelines

• Continue injections until pregnancy is confirmed; continue as advised if pregnant
• Do not refrigerate. It will increases injection pain
• Warm the ampoule in your hands before injecting
• Alternate injection sites between left and right sides
• Avoid injecting into bruised or hardened areas
• Apply ice before injection or use topical anesthetic to reduce discomfort
• Insert the needle quickly at a 90° angle and inject slowly
• Keep the muscle relaxed. inject while lying down and shift weight to the opposite leg
• Massage the injection site and apply warm compress afterward
• Drink plenty of fluids and eat a balanced diet
• Avoid strenuous activity immediately after injection
• Consult your doctor if pain persists. He/She may recommends switching to suppositories

 

FET Success Rates

Frozen embryo transfer success depends on multiple factors including the woman’s age, the cause of infertility, embryo quality, and the transfer technique. On average, FET success rates range between 30% and 40%.