Embryo Transfer Day: What to Expect After IVF | RPSD San Diego

Embryo transfer day is one of the most anticipated milestones in your IVF journey. After weeks of monitoring appointments, medications, and procedures, the moment finally arrives when your embryo is transferred into your uterus.

At Reproductive Partners Fertility Center – San Diego (RPSD), our expert team of reproductive endocrinologists guides patients through this exciting step with compassion, experience, and evidence-based care. Below, we’ll answer the most common questions about embryo transfer, share important IVF do’s and don’ts, and explain what to expect during the “two-week wait.”

No! Once transferred, your embryo is safely inside the uterus and won’t be dislodged by sneezing, coughing, peeing, or other normal body functions. The embryo will float briefly before implanting in the uterine lining. Rest assured — it’s secure.

Patience is key. The official pregnancy test is done 9–10 days after transfer with a blood test at your fertility clinic. At-home tests can be misleading because IVF medications may affect hormone levels, so wait for your clinic’s results.

Some people experience mild symptoms like spotting, cramping, breast tenderness, or fatigue. Others may feel nothing at all.

Important: These signs may also be caused by fertility medications, so don’t read too much into every twinge. The blood test is the only way to confirm pregnancy.

Light spotting or brown discharge within 48 hours is common. Vaginal discharge may also result from progesterone medications.

Call your care team if:

While much of the process is out of your control, you can support implantation by:

It’s best to wait until after your pregnancy test. This prevents possible uterine irritation and reduces infection risk.

Alternatives for intimacy include: cuddling, massage, and open communication to maintain closeness during the waiting period.

Extended bed rest isn’t necessary. At RPSD, patients rest briefly after the transfer, then return to normal daily activities. Avoid heavy lifting or intense workouts, but otherwise resume life as usual.

Not every transfer results in pregnancy, and that’s normal. At RPSD, our physicians personalize each protocol and support you every step of the way. If one cycle isn’t successful, we’ll review your plan and explore the best next steps with compassion and expertise.

At Reproductive Partners Fertility Center – San Diego, we’ve been pioneers in fertility care for nearly three decades. From embryo transfer to advanced techniques like egg freezing and genetic testing, our team is here to help you achieve your dream of parenthood.