The days after your embryo transfer are filled with quiet hope, nervous anticipation, and a desire to do everything "right." But what does “right” really mean when it comes to post-transfer care?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the period following an embryo transfer is seen as sacred—an opportunity to invite implantation, not force it. Whether you're in the two-week wait or preparing for it, here’s how to care for your body, mind, and spirit during this important time.
1. Cultivate Warmth—Inside and Out
In TCM, a warm womb is a receptive womb. After embryo transfer, we aim to support yang energy (active, warming) without overexertion.
Do:
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Keep your lower belly and feet warm (socks and layers are great)
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Eat cooked, warming meals: soups, rice bowls, stews
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Drink warm teas like ginger, chamomile, or cinnamon (if tolerated)
Avoid:
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Cold/raw foods (smoothies, salads, iced drinks)
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Cold exposure (barefoot on tile, cold pools, skipping jackets)
This gentle warmth helps improve blood flow to the uterus and supports implantation energetically.
2. Rest, but Don’t Be Inactive
There’s no need for bedrest unless your doctor recommends it. In fact, light activity can support circulation and reduce stress.
Helpful movements include:
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Gentle walking
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Yin or restorative yoga
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Deep breathing or qigong
Avoid anything that strains the core, increases pelvic pressure, or involves jumping/lifting.
Think of your body as protecting a sacred flame—you don’t want to blow it out or leave it cold.
3. Calm the Mind, Trust the Process
The two-week wait can be emotionally intense. Your brain may want to analyze every twinge or symptom. That’s totally human—but it can also spike cortisol and keep your body in fight-or-flight mode.
Emotional care tips:
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Keep a “joy list” of small daily pleasures
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Limit time on forums if they make you anxious
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Meditate, journal, or talk to a therapist
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Say affirmations: “I trust my body. I trust the process.”
I often recommend acupuncture 1–3 days post-transfer to support nervous system regulation and reduce obsessive thinking.
4. Eat to Support Blood and Qi
Your diet should continue to focus on warming, nourishing foods that help build blood and support digestion.
Eat more of:
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Bone broth, cooked greens, eggs, congee, oats
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Ginger, fennel, cinnamon, turmeric
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Protein: chicken, salmon, black beans, tofu
Avoid:
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Cold, greasy, or sugary foods
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Anything that causes bloating or sluggish digestion
TCM sees strong digestion as the foundation of fertility—it helps transform food into energy for implantation.
5. Release Guilt and Be Gentle with Yourself
There’s no perfect formula for making an embryo stick. You’re not doing it wrong if you feel tired, scared, or unsure. Your job now is to hold yourself with softness and allow your body to do its part in peace.
Remember: resting, eating warm food, and trusting the unknown are not passive—they’re active choices rooted in wisdom.
Let Acupuncture Support You During the Two-Week Wait
Many patients say that their post-transfer acupuncture sessions are the most emotionally grounding part of their IVF journey. We focus on calming the uterus, regulating hormones, and helping you feel safe and supported—no matter the outcome.
You don’t have to wait this out alone.
Call or text 773-517-7187
Book online at www.lisameyerson.com
Let’s make space for receptivity, trust, and quiet courage.
Read next: IVF Diet Plan to Support Implantation and Balance
Lisa Meyerson
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