What Happens After Embryo Transfer: Day-by-Day Symptoms
If you’re here, then you’ve likely traveled the long road of infertility and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
All that’s left to do is wait—which can often be the most difficult part. As you track and analyze post-embryo transfer symptoms, feelings, and moods, it can be overwhelming.
To help you through this crucial period, here’s a comprehensive guide that includes everything you need to know about what happens after an embryo transfer and the symptoms to watch for day by day.
Pregnancy Symptoms After Embryo Transfer
If you’re searching for positive signs and pregnancy symptoms that indicate a successful fresh embryo transfer, it’s important to know what to look for as your body adjusts and responds to implantation.
While each person’s experience can vary, here is what many experience following a successful embryo transfer, including day-by-day symptoms:
- 1-4 days after embryo transfer
Mild cramping, light spotting, fatigue, and mood swings due to embryo implantation and hormonal changes in the body. - 5-6 days
In addition to mild cramping, many women begin to experience symptoms of breast tenderness, increased urination, and constipation due to hormonal changes and the use of progesterone supplements. - 7-9 days
As the embryo becomes more established in the uterine lining, women may experience implantation bleeding (light pink to brown discharge), nausea, headaches, and sore nipples. - 10-12 days
If the transfer is successful, you may experience several of the following symptoms as the uterus begins to stretch and grow to make room for the developing embryo: increased hunger, increased thirst, mild cramping, mood swings, and fatigue. - 13-14 days
As you near the end of your TWW (two-week wait), the embryo continues to grow, and your body must produce more hormones. Resulting symptoms may include breast changes (enlargement), nausea, vomiting, and increased fatigue. - 21 days after embryo transfer
By the third week, the embryo is firmly implanted into the uterine lining. This causes significant hormonal shifts in the body, leading to several possible pregnancy symptoms, such as: “morning sickness,” mood changes, dizziness, headaches, heightened sense of smell, and increased breast tenderness and volume.
Please remember, this is only a guide. Do not worry if you are not experiencing these post-embryo transfer and early pregnancy symptoms.
About 10-15% of women do not experience any post-embryo transfer symptoms in the first two weeks. The best way to confirm pregnancy following a fresh or frozen embryo transfer is through a blood test with your fertility specialist.
Signs of Implantation After Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
While post-frozen embryo transfer symptoms generally mirror those of a fresh embryo transfer, individual experiences can vary.
Some women may experience slight differences based on their specific treatment or response to the medications used in the process. For example, the type of medication used, the treatment protocol, and individual hormonal responses can influence symptom severity and timing.
If you’ve undergone a fresh or frozen embryo transfer procedure, monitor your symptoms closely and contact your fertility specialist right away if you have any questions or concerns.
Navigating Infertility With Safe, Effective In Vitro Fertilization Treatments
If you are considering IVF treatments, please schedule a consultation with Pacific Reproductive Center. We are ready to support your unique needs and help you achieve pregnancy in a safe and compassionate environment.
