One week after embryo transfer: what to know

Mild cramping, pelvic pressure, bloating, breast tenderness, tiredness, or light spotting can occur after the procedure or from progesterone. Some people have no symptoms. These sensations cannot show whether implantation has occurred, and a home test taken too early may be difficult to interpret.

The embryo-transfer process is part of IVF, and the clinic’s timing for a pregnancy test is based on the type of transfer and your treatment plan. Bleeding does not by itself prove that treatment has failed.

Take prescribed medicines exactly as directed, including Micronised Progesterone when it is part of your plan. Keep the scheduled test and contact the clinic before changing, stopping, or adding medicine. Normal gentle activity is usually preferable to strict bed rest, but follow any restrictions your clinic gave you.

Drink normally, eat regular meals, and avoid repeatedly testing for reassurance. Record bleeding, pain, temperature, and medicines so you can describe changes clearly.

Contact your fertility clinic urgently for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, faintness, shoulder-tip pain, fever, breathing difficulty, or rapidly increasing abdominal swelling. These symptoms can need prompt assessment, including for complications related to ovarian stimulation or an early pregnancy. Use emergency services if you feel seriously unwell.

Ask which symptoms are expected with your medicines, the exact date and type of pregnancy test, what to do if you miss a dose, and who to contact outside clinic hours. Ask when exercise, sex, travel, or work changes are appropriate for your individual plan.