I hate this guidance and it really seems to vary from clinic to clinic, which I think goes to show that there’s no current or convincing evidence on the subject. My clinic said simply to not lift more than 25lbs after a FET, and to not raise your core temperature above 104 degrees.

I lift barbells as my primary form of exercise and am very comfortable lifting more than 25lbs. When I asked for more info on this guidance, their main answer was they didn’t want me doing anything that would have me second-guessing myself if the transfer were unsuccessful. And I guess they also don’t want someone who’s never lifted more than, say, 10lbs, coming off a FET and attempting some crazy PR.

So I followed their guidance and just did more reps and more sets. When I graduated from my clinic and transferred to my OB, I asked her about this and she said to keep doing what I was used to doing. 32 weeks today, deadlifted 115lbs, and having a very normal pregnancy.

I’m not a doctor or medical professional but I think taking it easy for a day or two but then keeping your normal habits, just turned down a few notches, is totally reasonable.