What are the signs of a positive embryo transfer?

Embryo transfer is the process of placing an embryo into the woman’s uterus after in vitro fertilization (IVF). The days following the transfer are critical for the treatment’s success, as during this period, the transferred embryo must successfully implant itself in the endometrium to continue developing.

During the period between the transfer and the pregnancy test, known as the two-week wait, women usually look for signs or symptoms that might indicate whether the procedure was successful.

It is important to note that many women do not experience symptoms associated with a successful transfer, so the absence of signs should not cause concern.

Another factor to consider is that post-transfer medication, such as progesterone, can cause side effects that might be mistaken for implantation symptoms. Therefore, the presence or absence of symptoms is not a determining factor in predicting the success or failure of embryo transfer. The only way to confirm pregnancy is through a pregnancy test and, later, an ultrasound.

That said, some women may experience certain symptoms that could be related to embryo implantation:

• Mild abdominal cramps (similar to menstrual pain).
• Implantation bleeding.
• Rise in basal body temperature.
• Fatigue, tiredness, and drowsiness.
• Slight breast swelling, especially in the areola and nipple.
• Nausea or changes in appetite. Although nausea at this stage is rare, many women notice changes in taste or smell that lead to an aversion to certain foods or odors.
• Increased urinary frequency.

The two-week wait is an emotionally intense period, so it is essential to remember that every woman responds differently to treatment and that the emotional state and stress can affect the symptom perception. Practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can be beneficial in coping with this stage.