Post Transfer Patient Instructions

Day of Transfer Instructions

• Diet: There are no restriction eating or drinking before or after the embryo transfer. However, you should continue to avoid alcoholic beverages after your transfer.
• Embryo transfer procedure: The embryo transfer is a quick and painless procedure. It is performed in the same procedure room that you had your egg retrieval. No intravenous line is required and no anesthetic is administered. If you feel that you would like medication to relax, please discuss your request with the nursing staff. Your partner will be able to accompany you into the procedure room if you desire.
• Recovery room: Following the embryo transfer procedure, you will spend one hour in the recovery room. It is not necessary to stay longer than one hour. If you wish to stay longer, please discuss your request with the nurse so we can accommodate you.
• The trip home: You may drive yourself home if there is no one available to drive you.
• Activity level: Activity is restricted for 2 days, (36 hours) after the transfer. You do not need to stay in bed. Stay home; don’t engage in any strenuous activities such as heavy lifting. You may shower, use the toilet, sit on the couch and at the dinner table. Following the 2 days of rest you may gradually resume normal activity. You should however avoid sexual intercourse for two weeks following the transfer.
• Fluid intake: make sure that you remain well hydrated throughout the two weeks following the embryo transfer. The best indicator for your hydration status is your urine output (amount) and concentration (color). If your urine becomes scant and dark, increase your fluid intake. We recommend Gatorade as the best source of fluid and electrolytes during this period. Food to avoid include alcohol, caffeine (limit to one cup a day), high sodium containing foods such as foods high in MSG, limit salt intake i.e. don’t add salt to food at the dinner table.
• Medication and blood work instructions: An updated medication and blood work schedule will be given to you at the time of your transfer. Keep in mind that some of the medications you are taking may cause symptoms resembling pregnancy and/or menses. Under no circumstances should you stop taking your medication without speaking to a nurse.