Yes, you can run light errands after an embryo transfer, and light activity is generally encouraged over strict bed rest. Most fertility specialists advise taking it easy for the remainder of the transfer day, but resuming normal, non-strenuous activities the day after is usually fine.
Avoid strenuous physical activity: Avoid strenuous activities such as aerobics, running, jogging, cycling on hills, etc. Instead you can do moderate physical activities such as walking, driving, cooking, etc. You may also go to work but only if your work does not involve heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.
Activities to embrace after your embryo transfer
You certainly don't have to go on complete bed rest or lie down all the time (your embryo won't “fall out” if you don't keep your feet up). But if you want to use this as an excuse to get your partner to do the grocery shopping, we won't tell.
Yes, it is fine to do housework. Can I have a bath or shower? Yes, it is fine to have a shower however, we would not recommend having a bath or using a hot tub following embryo transfer.
No evidence has yet proven that exercise can completely disrupt implantation. But due to the effects of over-exercising on luteal phase length, it's best to keep from overexerting yourself too much if your goal is to conceive.
Other Potential Causes of Implantation Failure
You still want to take it easy after transfer because you don't want to disrupt the embryo implantation process. But you do get much more wiggle room now – only intense exercise is discouraged in the days following embryo transfer. While it's fine to take a walk on the day of the transfer, try not to do much more.
One of the things to avoid after an embryo transfer is a diet high in processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol. That said, a cookie or small treat to ease stress or soothe your nerves is perfectly okay and won't negatively affect the outcome.
We recommend complete sitting avoidance for the first 2-3 weeks to protect transferred fat cells from pressure damage. During weeks 3-4, you can begin limited sitting using specialized BBL pillows that redistribute weight away from your buttocks. By week 6, most patients can gradually return to normal sitting patterns.
While some implantation factors are beyond our control, there are several habits and actions that can help support this crucial stage.
Considering that there is no difference between the two strategies, there is no evidence to recommend bed rest after embryo transfer.
Poor quality embryos are one of the most common reasons for failed IVF. Whether you are infertile or just infertile, poor quality embryos can result in IVF cycle cancellation. A poor-quality embryo can be the result of multiple factors, including defective uterus or eggs.
Consuming pineapple (specifically the core) in the days leading up to and following an embryo transfer is another popular superstition. The idea is that the pineapple core is rich in bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory and mild blood-thinning properties, which could hypothetically support implantation.
What should I do during the 2 week wait?
Don't
Certain lifestyle habits may create an environment that supports implantation. This includes eating a healthy diet, managing stress, and checking your progesterone. Progesterone medications are often prescribed for women undergoing IVF treatments. This increases the chances of successful implantation.
Excessive bed rest has no proven benefit for implantation rates. Doctors recommend just 20–30 minutes of rest post-transfer, after which you can return to light normal activities.
Gynecologists recommend a good 24 to 48 hours of rest after embryo transfer because the embryo is in the process of being attached to the uterine lining. Heavy activities can disrupt it. After 30+ hours of rest, you can continue with your normal routine.
Staying in bed does not increase the chance of successful implantation. What we do advise is that you take it easy for a day or so – and by this we mean no strenuous activity or vigorous exercising.
11 Positive signs after embryo transfer
Light activities such as walking can actually help boost blood flow, potentially benefiting the implantation process.
Based on research, and the experience of our own patients, read our 10 tips for lowering your chances of miscarriage after IVF.
The best age for IVF success lies between 25 to 35, where fertility potential is at its peak, and complications are fewer. However, IVF has evolved to offer hope across a broader age range, especially with donor eggs and personalized medical strategies.
Once you have begun your IVF cycle, you will want to continue being active, but tone down your exercise regimen a bit. Light exercise such as walking is strongly encouraged; however, running and weightlifting can actually decrease your chances of becoming pregnant while increasing your risk of ovarian torsion.
This means creating the best possible uterine environment, where balance and care are crucial. While there's no hard evidence showing that exercise can directly disrupt implantation, many fertility doctors (myself included) recommend taking a cautious approach.