12 Common Embryo Transfer Questions, Answered by IVF Experts

Nurse Practitioner Monica Moore explains why you can cross this worry off your list.

In this article:

• The Embryo Transfer Day Milestone
• 12 Common Questions About Embryo Transfer
• Can I pee (or sneeze) out my embryo?
• When will I find out if I'm pregnant or not?
• What are the early signs of pregnancy after embryo transfer?
• Is bleeding or discharge normal after embryo transfer?
• What can I do to increase my chances of successful implantation?
• How long does it take for the embryo to implant after transfer?
• Can I have sex after embryo transfer?
• Is bed rest beneficial after embryo transfer?
• What should I avoid after embryo transfer?
• What if my embryo transfer isn't successful?
• Are there any side effects from an embryo transfer?
• What happens if I get sick after embryo transfer?

The Embryo Transfer Day Milestone

After an embryo transfer, it's only natural to want to do everything "right" to encourage successful implantation. Here's a breakdown of what to expect, some important do's and don'ts, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about embryo transfers.

12 Common Questions About Embryo Transfer

Throughout your in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, you've dealt with so many morning monitoring appointments, ultrasounds, medications, forms, phone calls, emails and consults with your doctor - you've probably stopped keeping count.

Now, the day of your long-awaited embryo transfer has finally arrived, and you want to make sure you do everything by the book in order to give that little embryo the best chance at successful implantation. 

While your Care Team will of course be on standby to provide individualized support, we understand that some things you may be wondering about may feel a bit awkward to bring up to your doctor or nurse.

That's why we're here - to bust some common embryo transfer myths and answer the most frequently asked post-transfer questions!

1. Can I pee (or sneeze) out my embryo?

If you've ever been worried about this, you're not alone! You'd be surprised just how many patients have similar concerns. After going through an entire IVF journey, it's only natural to want to be sure your little embryo will be safe and secure after transfer!

So...can you pee, sneeze, cough or jump too hard and stop your embryo from successfully implanting? Nope! Once that embryo is transferred, it's going to stay put.

Your embryo simply cannot be dislodged from the uterus post-transfer due to you sneezing, coughing, peeing or other bodily functions. Though the embryo will float around in your uterus a little before finding a comfortable spot to implant, these tiny embryos aren't as fragile as you may think.

In a nutshell, don't fret! Your embryo is safe and sound. And of course, if you have any concerns you can't shake, don't hesitate to reach out to your Care Team for reassurance. 

2. When will I find out if I'm pregnant or not?

If there's one thing you know at this point in your fertility journey, it's that there is a lot of waiting involved. After your embryo transfer, you'll have to wait about 9-10 days before you return to your fertility clinic for an official pregnancy test (performed via a simple blood test). 

Note: We strongly recommend waiting for that official pregnancy test instead of trying to do at-home tests during this 9-10 day waiting period post-transfer, as the medications involved in an IVF cycle can throw off your hormone levels, leading to inaccurate results.

We know it's difficult to hold off, but the blood test we do in the office will provide the most concrete answer (and save you a lot of confusion and anxiety). 

3. What are the early signs of pregnancy after embryo transfer?

This is (understandably) one of the most frequently asked questions we hear.

After all this time and effort, you're looking for any possible signs of success. It's important to note that many of the "typical" early pregnancy symptoms can also be caused by hormonal changes caused by prescribed medications. Here's why:

• Medication mimicry: Many progesterone and estrogen medications used in IVF cycles cause side effects remarkably similar to early pregnancy symptoms. It can be impossible to distinguish if these signs are due to medication or an actual pregnancy.
• Individual variation: Everyone's body reacts differently to both embryo transfer and early pregnancy. Some might experience many symptoms, while others have none at all.

Common Signs of Early Pregnancy

Remember: Having (or not having) any of these symptoms doesn't indicate the success or failure of your embryo transfer.

• Spotting or implantation bleeding: Light spotting or brownish discharge around 6-12 days post-transfer could be implantation bleeding, when the embryo attaches to the uterine lining. It's not heavy and usually lasts only a couple of days.
• Cramping: Mild cramps (similar to menstrual cramps) can occur due to implantation or hormonal shifts.
• Breast tenderness: Increased breast sensitivity is common due to hormones, both from medications and potential pregnancy.
• Fatigue: The IVF process itself and rising hormones can lead to tiredness.
• Elevated basal body temperature: Closely tracking your basal body temperature may show a sustained spike, which can sometimes indicate pregnancy.

While it's tempting to analyze every twinge, try to relax and focus on caring for yourself during this waiting period. The blood pregnancy test around 9-10 days after transfer is the only sure way to confirm pregnancy.

Resist the urge to take early at-home tests, as they are less accurate and can lead to unnecessary anxiety.

Embryo Transfer Day 101

What happens before, during and after your embryo transfer? Is embryo transfer painful? A medical assistant answers FAQs to help you feel more prepared for the big day.

4. Is bleeding or discharge normal after embryo transfer?

Light bleeding or spotting after an embryo transfer is common, and looks like a light pink or brown discharge. It is not abundant and lasts up to 48 hours. You might only notice the spotting when wiping.

Note: Contact your Care Team right away if the bleeding is heavy, doesn't stop within a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as severe cramping or nausea.

If you notice extra vaginal discharge, don't panic! This can be caused by the influx of hormones and blood flow to the reproductive organs, and is one of the body's ways to protect the uterus from infections.

Discharge post-transfer is typically a result of any vaginal medications (like progesterone) that you may be on to encourage implantation. It can appear powdery or gel-like, depending on the situation.

5. Can I do anything to increase the chances of successful implantation?

Actually, yes!

While so many pieces of the fertility puzzle feel completely out of your control, there are some key things you can do surrounding your embryo transfer to help increase your odds of successful embryo implantation.

Here are a few tips:

• Laser acupuncture: This non-invasive, painless treatment has been shown to significantly increase implantation rates when performed before and after embryo transfer. At Illume, we even have an amazing Acupuncture Team on standby for your big day! Learn more about laser acupuncture and embryo transfer or reach out to our acupuncturists directly to get more information.
• Stress reduction techniques: While we will never tell you to "just relax" during your fertility journey, reducing stress around embryo transfer day is helpful (not just for your physical health, but your mental health). Speak with a friend or counselor, connect with our community, practice meditating with the help of an app or free YouTube video, dress in your comfiest clothes, and keep your environment as relaxing as possible. 
• Follow your medication protocol closely: Reach out to your fertility nurse with any questions or concerns about timing or dosage. Also make sure you have enough of each of your medications, especially if you are traveling during your cycle. Your Care Team works hard to carefully design a personalized medication protocol to give you the highest chance of success!

6. How long does it take for the embryo to implant after transfer?

The answer to this question really depends on the maturity of your specific embryo, but generally, implantation typically takes place anywhere from 1-5 days after your embryo transfer. 

7. Can I have sex after embryo transfer?

It's best to wait to have sex until after your official pregnancy test (9-10 days after embryo transfer). Here are the main reasons doctors recommend waiting to resume sexual activity:

• Uterine irritation: The transfer procedure itself can cause slight irritation to the cervix. Sex could potentially increase the risk of infection.
• Contractions: Orgasms involve uterine contractions. While minor contractions are unlikely to dislodge the embryo, some doctors recommend caution in the early stages of implantation.

Alternatives for Intimacy

• Stay close in other ways: Maintain a loving connection with your partner through cuddling, massages, or other forms of physical affection that don't involve intercourse.
• Open communication: Be honest with your partner about your anxieties and desires. Together, you can find ways to still feel close and in tune with each other during this time.

8. Is bed rest beneficial after embryo transfer?

Directly following your embryo transfer at Illume Fertility, you will rest for 20 minutes before you are discharged that day. Many patients ask if they need to go home and be on bed rest afterward, but there has been no benefit found to going on bed rest after transfer.

You can go about your daily life as you feel comfortable!

However, you should be mindful of how you're feeling, and not do any heavy lifting or intense exercise for the next few days, because we want you to feel confident that you have created the best uterine environment to allow implantation to take place.

9. What should I avoid after embryo transfer? 

While your Care Team will provide specific instructions, here are some general tips on what to avoid after an embryo transfer to optimize implantation and your overall well-being:

Activities to limit:

• Strenuous exercise: While light exercise (such as walking or yoga) is encouraged, you should avoid anything that could put excessive strain on your body. This includes heavy lifting, high-impact sports, or activities with a risk of falling.
• Hot baths/jacuzzis: Excessively hot water can raise your body temperature, which isn't ideal for embryo implantation. Opt for warm showers instead.
• Heating pads: Avoid applying direct heat to your lower abdomen, as this could also potentially impact implantation.
• Douching: This disrupts the natural vaginal flora, potentially increasing your risk of infection.
• Smoking, alcohol, and drugs: As these substances can harm your developing embryo, it's important to avoid them completely during this time.

Dietary cautions:

• Excessive caffeine: Try to limit your caffeine intake, as high doses might negatively affect implantation.
• Processed foods: Whenever possible, opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats and low in nutrients, so do your best to minimize them.

Other recommendations:

• Reduce stress: While eliminating stress entirely isn't possible, finding ways to manage it (especially during this time) is crucial. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Surround yourself with supportive loved ones and consider joining a support group for people undergoing fertility treatments.
• Check your medications: Not all medications are safe during pregnancy. Double-check with your doctor about any medications you're currently taking to ensure they won't interfere with implantation or early pregnancy.

Thinking about IVF?

Download our free guide to IVF to learn more about how much IVF costs, how long it typically takes, and how this fertility treatment can help you achieve your family-building dreams.