Mild cramping, mood swings, fatigue, and light spotting are some common symptoms post embryo transfer. But, are you experiencing constipation? Want to know whether it is common or not, after embryo transfer?
If yes, then you’ve landed on the right spot that elaborates the reasons behind constipation and natural remedies to manage this symptom. So, let’s get started.
What happens to the body after embryo transfer?
- Post-embryo transfer signs include bloating, fatigue, and mood swings, with constipation and diarrhea also possible; upcoming sections will address constipation management.
After ET, your body also undergoes many changes as a result of success or failure. In general, clinics suggest taking rest post the 24 hours of embryo transfer. Because strenuous activities can affect your body severely.
Post embryo transfer, the uterus responds to the presence of embryos. Then, you can experience some signs including
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Mild spotting and discomfort
- Sore breasts
- Mood swings
- Increased urination
- Gastrointestinal change
Along with such signs, constipation and diarrhea can also accompany after embryo transfer. It is quite common post ET, but what are the reasons for constipation and how can you manage this. You’ll know about such things in the upcoming sections.
Causes of constipation
- Post-embryo transfer, constipation may result from increased progesterone, IVF medications, dietary changes, and stress related to the emotional challenges of treatment
Typically, diet changes, inadequate fiber, and problems with intestinal function can be the reason for constipation. Throughout the IVF process, your body goes through a lot of changes.
So, there are some potential reasons for constipation after embryo transfer.
Increased progesterone levels: After embryo transfer and during pregnancy, progesterone levels in your body increases.Progesterone relaxes your intestines or bowel.
The relaxation in the stomach results in stool movement slowdown. It makes your body take more time to absorb the nutrients from the food.
IVF medications: The hormonal medications used before and after the embryo transfer can cause slow digestion that leads to constipation.
Dietary changes: Fertility experts may recommend significant adjustments in the diet while undergoing IVF treatment. The new dietary changes might disrupt the normal digestion process and cause constipation.
Another important factor for constipation could be stress and anxiety. IVF treatment is literally an emotionally challenging journey that can make you depressed. So, stress factor can be a possible reason for constipation.
Managing Constipation
Some women consider constipation after embryo transfer is similar to usual days. General reasons for random constipation is eating a lot of high-fat meats, dairy products, sweets, and excessive spicy foods. And, intake normal medications without any proper doctor’s prescription.
Though constipation after embryo transfer is a common concern, managing it in a proper way is essential for better relief. Here are some natural remedies for managing constipation.
Natural Remedies
- Manage constipation after embryo transfer by focusing on hydration, fiber-rich foods, and physical activity, along with a balanced diet.
Never get worried because of constipation after embryo transfer in the IVF process. This section gives you a detailed view on the significant natural remedies to manage constipation.
3 F’s of Constipation
Fluid, Fiber, and Fitness are the 3 F’s of this common concern.
Keep yourself hydrated and add healthy drinks to your daily diet. This improves digestion and helps to maintain smooth and regular bowel movements.
Fiber-rich foods assist in speedy recovery from constipation as it is the important source for absorbing the nutrients and minerals from the foods you intake. You can add fiber-rich foods including,
- Apples
- Raspberries
- Pears
- Broccoli
- Peas
- Brown rice
- Barley
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Black beans
Fitness doesn’t always mean six packs, sometimes it indicates healthy physical well being. So, do mild exercises and simple workouts to keep your body moving smoothly.
When it comes to constipation, you can ask your fertility expert and practice them after embryo transfer. This is a simple yet effective way for managing constipation.
Eat a balanced diet
As stated previously, you can include fiber-rich foods to get relief from constipation. You can include avocados, blueberries, strawberries, healthy meats, and nuts in your daily diet.
Make sure you add these things throughout the IVF treatment. Eating this continuously gives you relief and makes you feel better.
Can constipation affect implantation?
No, constipation doesn’t affect the implantation process. But, you can consider it as a sign of implantation. That is once the implantation process is successful, then constipation and diarrhea accompany other early pregnancy signs.
It includes bloating, mood swings, headaches, fatigue, nausea, appetite change, and sore breasts. So, you don’t want to get stressed or anxious about constipation after embryo transfer.
Prevention Strategies
Your emotional and physical well-being is significant after an embryo transfer. Though constipation and diarrhea are common signs post transfer, you can effectively prevent it in these ways post embryo transfer.
- Stay calm and relax.
- Avoid common medicines used generally for constipation.
- Consult the doctor and follow prescribed medication.
- Avoid sexual intercourse post embryo transfer.
- Don’t get involved in vigorous exercise.
- Avoid iron supplements that can make you constipated. Ask suggestions to your fertility expert about consuming them.
Conclusion
IVF is one of the best treatments for couples that let them take a step towards their dream of parenthood. Constipation after embryo transfer is normal, so there is nothing to worry about.
You may feel uncomfortable, but following the managing remedies gives you better relief from constipation. Make sure to follow your fertility doctor’s advice, which can guide you throughout the IVF process.
FAQs
No, you shouldn’t push poop after embryo transfer. Wait for 5 hours before trying to have a bowel movement.
And, it is good to avoid any kind of activity that strain your pelvic region such as pushing during a bowel movement.
Yes, implantation symptoms also include constipation. When the fertilized egg implants into the uterine lining, your body undergoes a lot of hormonal changes and the progesterone levels increase.
This results in constipation after implantation. Increasing the fiber intake gives you relief from constipation. You can add fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, lentils, and peas.
Yes, constipation in early pregnancy is absolutely normal. It happens due to hormonal changes, medicine and supplement usage, and not including sufficient quantities of fiber in daily diet.
So, make sure to add fiber-rich foods in your diet, drink plenty of fluids, and do moderate exercise regularly. This can improve the overall health and relieve constipation.