What should you know about steps after embryo transfer?

The transferred embryo needs time to interact with the uterine lining, and symptoms during this waiting period cannot confirm whether implantation has occurred. Mild cramps, pelvic pressure or light spotting can occur, while progesterone may cause breast tenderness, bloating or sleepiness. Continue the medication plan unless your fertility team tells you otherwise. A home test taken too early can be misleading, particularly when medication has affected hormone levels.

Use micronised progesterone exactly as instructed and note any missed dose so the clinic can advise you. Eat and drink normally, take gentle walks if comfortable and avoid activities your team has restricted. Keep the planned test date and contact details accessible. Protect your emotional wellbeing by limiting repeated testing and seeking support from someone you trust. The clinic’s instructions take priority because protocols differ.

Contact your fertility clinic promptly for increasing pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, fever, vomiting, marked abdominal swelling, breathlessness or reduced urination. Seek urgent help for severe pain, fainting, chest pain or difficulty breathing. These symptoms need assessment and should not be judged by the pregnancy test result alone.

Ask when to test, what to do after a missed progesterone dose, and which activities are suitable for you. Ask which symptoms are expected, who to contact outside clinic hours and when an early scan or blood test will be arranged if the test is positive.