What should you know about preparing for embryo transfer?

During embryo transfer, a clinician places an embryo into the uterus through a thin catheter passed through the cervix. The clinic will explain whether the cycle is fresh or frozen, how the lining is assessed and what result timing to expect. Medication such as micronised progesterone may support the uterine lining; use it exactly as prescribed and do not stop it because of spotting without speaking with the team.

Check the appointment time, transport and any instructions about eating, drinking or arriving with a comfortably full bladder. Take prescribed medicines at the stated times, bring a current medication list and tell the clinic about illness, bleeding or new medicines. Wear comfortable clothing and plan a calm return home. Normal gentle activity is usually easier to maintain than strict bed rest, but your own clinic instructions take priority.

Contact your fertility team if you have significant bleeding, increasing pelvic pain, fever, faintness, breathing difficulty or marked abdominal swelling. Seek emergency care for severe pain, collapse or trouble breathing. After transfer, follow the clinic’s testing date rather than relying on early symptoms, which can also result from medicines or the treatment cycle.

Which medicines should I take on the day, and what should I do if I miss a dose? Should my bladder be full? What activity is suitable afterwards, and who do I call about bleeding or pain? When should I take the pregnancy test?