What is uterine rest?
Uterine rest, during in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, refers to delaying embryo transfer after egg retrieval. In this method, the effects of the medications used to stimulate the ovaries on the uterine tissue are allowed to wear off. This allows the uterus (endometrium) to return to its natural balance, creating the most favorable environment for embryo implantation.
📍 FertiJin Women’s Health and IVF Center in Istanbul increases embryo implantation and pregnancy rates in IVF treatments through uterine rest.
👉 Schedule a free initial consultation now.
Why is uterine rest performed?
Uterine rest is performed especially for the following purposes:
- The uterine lining needs to be cleansed of the effects of the medication.
- Increasing the embryo implantation rate,
- Achieving a higher pregnancy success rate in IVF treatment,
- Reducing risks such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
In some patients, the medications used during egg retrieval can temporarily affect the uterine lining. In this case, the embryos are not transferred immediately; instead, they are frozen and the uterus is given 1-2 months to rest.
Who is suitable for uterine rest?
Uterine rest is not suitable for every patient. It is generally preferred in the following situations:
- In patients with insufficient uterine lining (endometrium) thickness,
- In cases where an excessive number of eggs develop and the ovaries are hyperstimulated (OHSS),
- In cases where embryo implantation did not occur in previous IVF attempts,
- In patients with hormonal imbalance or excessive drug load in the uterine environment,
- In patients with a history of recurrent miscarriages.
The FertiJin team plans the uterine rest period individually for each patient, taking into account their hormone profile, uterine structure, and past IVF experiences.
How is the uterine rest process applied?
Uterine rest consists of two stages:
Egg Retrieval and Embryo Freezing
- The ovaries are stimulated with medication, and the eggs are collected.
- Embryos fertilized in a laboratory environment are stored at -196°C using the vitrification (rapid freezing) method.
- This stage takes approximately 2 weeks.
Uterine Resting Period and Transfer
- The uterus is rested for 1-2 months without medication.
- In the second stage, the uterine tissue is prepared through the natural cycle or with gentle support.
- Frozen embryos are thawed and transferred at the appropriate time.
⏳ Average rest period: 1–2 months
🩺 Transfer preparation: 7–10 days
When is embryo transfer performed after uterine rest?
The timing of the transfer is planned according to the patient’s menstrual cycle and uterine thickness.
In some patients, embryo transfer can be performed even during the first menstrual period after egg retrieval. The uterus reaches the ideal thickness and structure
for transfer within the timeframe deemed appropriate by the doctor.
Advantages of Uterine Rest Procedure
Uterine rest is a modern method that increases the success rate of IVF treatment.
Its main advantages are:
✅ Increases embryo implantation rate.
✅ Maintains the natural balance of uterine tissue.
✅ Eliminates the risk of OHSS (Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome).
✅ Increases the chances of pregnancy.
✅ Reduces the burden of medication on the body.
This procedure has no known disadvantages or health risks.
How long is the uterine rest period?
- Rest period: 1–2 months
- Egg retrieval and embryo freezing process: Approximately 2 weeks
- Embryo thawing and transfer phase: 7–10 days
The total treatment duration averages between 2 and 3 months.
At the end of this period, the uterus reaches the most suitable biological structure for embryo implantation.
Uterine Rest During IVF Treatment
Uterine rest is a strategy in IVF treatment that preserves embryo quality and improves the uterine environment.
Freezing embryos instead of transferring fresh embryos and transferring them at the appropriate time can increase IVF success by 15–25%.
📍 FertiJin Women’s Health and IVF Center is one of Turkey’s leading centers with high success rates in frozen embryo transfers.
Uterine Rest Prices 20256
Uterine rest is usually part of IVF treatment. In some cases, the center does not charge an extra fee, while in others, there may be an additional fee for the procedure.
💬 Prices may vary depending on the treatment protocol and the center’s policy.
For current pricing information, please contact FertiJin Women’s Health and IVF Center.
👉 Schedule a free initial consultation now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many months does uterine rest last?
It usually takes 1–2 months. This is enough time for the uterus to return to its natural hormonal balance.
Who should not undergo uterine rest?
It is generally not necessary for patients with sufficient uterine thickness and stable hormonal balance.
Does the chance of pregnancy increase after uterine rest?
Yes. The success rate increases significantly, especially when the uterine tissue is exposed to a high dose of medication.
Can uterine rest be performed after IVF failure?
Yes, it is often used on a second attempt in patients who experienced adhesion problems in previous attempts.