IVF guide
The two-week wait after embryo transfer
The days between the embryo transfer and the pregnancy test are often called the two-week wait. This page describes what usually happens in this period.
Medication
Progesterone support is usually continued after the transfer, as vaginal medication, injections or tablets.1 It should not be stopped without the advice of the treating team, even if bleeding occurs.
Symptoms
Breast tenderness, mild cramps, bloating and tiredness are common in this period. They can be caused by progesterone and do not show whether a pregnancy has started. The absence of symptoms also does not mean that treatment has failed.
Home pregnancy tests
A home test done too early may give a false result. The trigger injection given before egg collection can also cause a false positive. For this reason, the blood test on the date given by the team is preferred.
Daily life
Most people can continue their normal daily activities. Heavy exercise, saunas and hot baths are often avoided. The team gives advice about travel, work and intercourse according to the individual situation.
When to contact the team
- Heavy bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of OHSS, such as rapid weight gain or shortness of breath
- Fever
Light spotting can occur and does not always mean a problem, but it is best to let the team know.
At a glance
- Progesterone support is usually continued.
- Symptoms are not a reliable sign of pregnancy.
- A blood test (beta-hCG) gives the result.
- Most daily activities can usually continue.
Frequently asked questions
Bed rest is not usually recommended.2 The team gives individual advice.
On the date given by the treating team. The timing depends on the embryo stage and treatment plan.
The test is often repeated to see whether hCG is rising, and an ultrasound is planned a few weeks later.
References
- van der Linden M, Buckingham K, Farquhar C, Kremer JA, Metwally M. Luteal phase support for assisted reproduction cycles. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2015;(7):CD009154.
- Craciunas L, Tsampras N. Bed rest following embryo transfer might negatively affect the outcome of IVF/ICSI: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Human Fertility. 2016;19(1).
Related topics
This page gives general information only. It does not replace an examination, and the treatment plan is decided by the physician for each person individually.