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What should I expect after my embryo transfer?
It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious after your embryo transfer. The time leading up to your pregnancy test can also feel like a lifetime, so it’s important to prioritise yourself during this period.
You might experience some symptoms similar to early pregnancy or period pain or you may have no symptoms at all. Here’s some advice and guidance to help you throughout your two-week wait.
Symptoms after transfer
After an embryo transfer, you may experience symptoms that resemble early pregnancy. These can include light spotting or bleeding, cramping, pelvic pain, bloating, fatigue, tender breasts and headaches. It is important to know that some individuals may not experience any symptoms at all, which is okay too, as everyone is different.
Some patients may develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). You will be informed about the likelihood of this condition on the day of egg collection. It’s common to feel bloated and uncomfortable a few days after the egg collection. However, these symptoms can become worse as the embryo begins to implant.
If you experience vomiting, find it difficult to breathe, are only able to pass small amounts of urine or continue to feel pain despite taking paracetamol or codeine, it is essential to contact your doctor or fertility clinic immediately.
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Dos and don’ts after your embryo transfer
Until you find out the outcome, it’s important to know what you can and cannot do after your procedure.
Dos
· Continue taking the medication the doctor has given you. Even if you start bleeding keep taking it.
· Take paracetamol and codeine to help manage any pain after the transfer. Avoid using codeine for more than three days.
· Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and maintain a healthy and balanced diet.
· After the transfer you will be given progesterone, to help prepare the lining of the womb for embryo implantation. This can help increase the chance of a successful pregnancy. One of the side effects of this medication is constipation, however, eating vegetables and drinking plenty of fluids can help. If the problem persists you can take stool softeners, which can be prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist.
· Make sure you take time to relax, whether that means taking a walk in the park or picking up your favourite book to read. Allowing time for yourself can significantly impact your physical and mental wellbeing.
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Don’ts
· It is best to refrain from any heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and physical activities that could disrupt the implantation process.
· Avoid hot baths and saunas as the heat can raise your body temperature, which can potentially impact implantation and reduce the chance of a successful pregnancy.
· Avoid eating uncooked meat, raw eggs and unpasteurised foods.
By following these steps, you will be able to support your health and the success of your embryo transfer. Rest assured; your aftercare will be discussed with you in detail during your consultation.
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Pregnancy test
You can take your pregnancy test 13 days after your transfer, but if you have had a day three embryo transfer you may need to wait 15 days. The fertility clinic will provide you with the exact date for testing. Hard though it may be, we recommend not testing before this date as it can give a false result.
For the most accurate outcome, take your pregnancy test first thing in the morning, as this is when your pregnancy hormones are at their highest concentration.
Positive result: If the test is positive, you will need to continue with the medication and folic acid. It is also best to take vitamin D, which is available over the counter. Following this, you will then be booked for a scan, which will take place two to three weeks after your test.
Negative result: If the test is negative and you haven’t experienced any bleeding, continue taking your medication and retest in two days. Then contact the fertility clinic to share your results. If you start to bleed, reach out to the medical team at the fertility clinic for advice and guidance. AT TFP Fertility, you have an option to book a review appointment with a consultant to discuss your next steps. We also offer counselling sessions to address any concerns you may have.
Regardless of your result, it’s essential to contact your fertility clinic, so they can advise you on what to do next.
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