Care after embryo transfer

The transfer itself is complete once the embryo has been placed in the uterus, but the treatment cycle continues while the lining is supported and the result is assessed. Light spotting, mild cramps, pelvic fullness, or no symptoms at all can happen. These experiences cannot establish whether implantation has occurred.

Progesterone support can cause discharge, breast tenderness, tiredness, constipation, or changes in mood. IVF medicines and the ovaries can also contribute to bloating. Your clinic may want to know about these symptoms, particularly if they are becoming stronger rather than settling.

Take Micronised Progesterone or other prescribed treatment on schedule, using the route and dose your team gave you. Do not stop it after spotting or a home test unless the clinic instructs you. Showering, walking, working, and sleeping in a comfortable position are generally compatible with recovery, but follow any individual restrictions after your IVF cycle.

Avoid alcohol and smoking, and check before taking non-prescription medicines or supplements. Use the clinic’s test date rather than trying to interpret early symptoms.

Call the fertility clinic for bleeding that is more than light spotting, persistent pain, fever, repeated vomiting, rapidly increasing abdominal swelling, dizziness, or reduced urine. Seek emergency care for collapse, severe breathlessness, or intense pain, especially if it is one-sided. Keep the clinic’s out-of-hours number accessible.

Ask what activity limits apply to your cycle, when to test, how to handle a missed dose, which pain relief is suitable, and how symptoms should be reported overnight.