Positive Signs After an Embryo Transfer

November 15, 2025

The "two-week wait" following an embryo transfer can be an emotionally challenging time. Most women become keenly aware of their bodies for any indication of change following embryo transfer, desperate for good news after the procedure. Experiencing slight cramping, exhaustion, or other early warning signs can be thrilling, but remembering that not all symptoms confirm pregnancy is key.

This article will help clarify what happens after embryo transfer, day-by-day symptoms, identify positive signs and educate on what to expect during this sensitive period.

What Happens After an Embryo Transfer

What Happens After an Embryo Transfer

During an embryo transfer, the embryo that has been fertilised is gently inserted into the uterus. From there, it must implant into the uterine lining, a process that typically takes 6–10 days after transfer.

Hormone medications, specifically progesterone and estrogen, are usually prescribed to help nourish the uterine lining. These medications may bring on symptoms that feel like early pregnancy, including breast soreness, mild cramping, or fatigue.

It's important to keep in mind that every woman is unique; some might have many symptoms, whereas others might not have any at all, yet still successfully conceive.

Also Read: Lifestyle Changes After Embryo Transfer

Positive Signs After an Embryo Transfer

While symptoms are varied, some early signs can indicate that implantation is taking place. Positive signs after embryo transfer include:

● Mild abdominal cramping or twinges

● Light bleeding or implantation spotting

● Tenderness or fullness in the breasts

Fatigue or sleepiness

● Mild nausea or food cravings

● Emotional changes or increased emotions

● Elevated basal body temperature

● White or creamy progesterone-related discharge

These are normal after embryo transfer positive symptoms that some women experience. But they are not conclusive evidence of pregnancy. Pregnancy can be confirmed only by getting a test done.

Also Read: Single Embryo Transfer (SET) vs Double: Which is Safest

Embryo Transfer Day-by-Day Symptoms Timeline

Embryo Transfer Day-by-Day Symptoms Timeline

Below is a general day-by-day timeline of embryo transfer symptoms until the pregnancy test:

Day 1–2

● The embryo starts to settle in the uterine lining.

● Most women experience no symptoms yet.

● Rest, hydration, and light movement are recommended.

Day 3–5

● Implantation can start, especially with blastocyst transfers.

● Mild cramping, bloating, or fatigue may occur.

● Some women experience absolutely nothing, which is completely normal.

Day 6–8

● Implantation spotting or light bleeding may show up.

● Mild pelvic pressure or warmth in the lower abdomen may occur.

Emotional shifts, like day-to-day mood swings, and excess discharge due to progesterone supplementation are normal.

This phase shows early positive indicators following embryo transfer.

Day 9–10

● Early pregnancy hormones (hCG) can begin to increase.

● Mild nausea, breast tenderness, fatigue, or metallic taste may be experienced.

● Enhanced sense of smell or minor food dislikes may surface.

A home pregnancy test might begin with small positive changes, though accuracy improves after Day 10.

Day 11–14

● Symptoms may become more pronounced or remain mild

● Confirmation is best achieved through a beta hCG blood test as recommended by your fertility doctor.

Reminders: Symptoms alone cannot be used to confirm pregnancy.

Distinguishing Between Hormonal and Pregnancy-Related Symptoms

IVF medications, including progesterone and estrogen, can also trigger early pregnancy symptoms like:

● Breast tenderness

● Mild cramping

● Mood swings

● Fatigue

It's essential to note that the absence of symptoms does not mean failure. Rather, emphasise rest, healthy eating, and following up with your doctor to make sure the embryo is getting an optimal environment to implant.

Emotional Indicators of Early Pregnancy Following Embryo Transfer

Emotional Indicators of Early Pregnancy Following Embryo Transfer

Hormonal peaks following embryo transfer can induce emotional alterations, such as:

● Mood swings or becoming emotionally sensitive

● Sudden euphoria or hopefulness

● Anxiety or increased sensitivity to bodily changes

These emotional reactions are typical and result from both hormones and anticipation of outcomes.

When to Take a Pregnancy Test

The most reliable confirmation is via a blood test (beta hCG) and is generally done 10–14 days following the transfer.

● Home urine tests can yield false negatives if performed too early.

● Avoid checking before your hospital’s advised date to avoid stress.

Keep a check after embryo transfer for individual monitoring, but stick to medical testing for verification.

Also Read: How to Use a Pregnancy Test Kit at Home

When to Call Your Doctor?

Immediately call your doctor if you experience the following:

Abnormal bleeding or cramping

● Fever, unusual discharge, or discomfort

● Harsh side effects from medication

● Anxiety bouts or emotional upset that impacts well-being

Seeking early help ensures complications are dealt with promptly.

Book an online appointment with Dr. Jyotsana Bajaj for fertility related issues.

The Cloudnine Advantage

Cloudnine provides holistic fertility care, ranging from post-embryo transfer care. With professional fertility experts, individualised monitoring, and a supportive environment, Cloudnine provides women with both medical advice and emotional support throughout the IVF process.

Ranging from monitoring embryo transfer day-by-day symptoms to after embryo transfer positive signs, Cloudnine uses expertise and compassion to optimise the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.

Conclusion

The wait following an embryo transfer is usually one of anticipation and doubt. Identification of possible after-embryo transfer positive signs and knowledge of embryo transfer day by day symptoms may be helpful and reassuring.

While physical or emotional cues may indicate implantation, only tests done at medical facilities can establish pregnancy. Emphasis on rest, diet, and guidance from experienced and caring healthcare specialists, such as Cloudnine, may ease this process and make it more comfortable.

Want to consult the best gynecologists in India? Please find the links below.

  1. Best Gynecologists in Hyderabad
  2. Top Gynecologists in Chennai
  3. Best Gynecologists in Bangalore
  4. Top Obstetricians & Gynecologists in Mumbai
  5. Top Gynecologists near me in Pune
  6. Best Obstetricians & Gynecologists in Chandigarh
  7. Top Obstetricians & Gynecologists near me in Gurgaon
  8. Best Gynecologists near me in Noida
  9. Top Gynecologist near me in Panchkula
  10. Best Gynecologist in Ludhiana
  11. Top Gynecologist In Delhi
  12. Top Gynecologists in Faridabad
  13. Top Gynecologists in Lucknow
  14. Top Gynecologists in Ghaziabad

Want to consult the best Maternity Packages in India? Please find the links below.

  1. Best Maternity Packages in Bengaluru
  2. Best Maternity Packages in Chandigarh
  3. Best Maternity Packages in Chennai
  4. Best Maternity Packages in Faridabad
  5. Best Maternity Packages in Gurugram
  6. Best Maternity Packages in Hyderabad
  7. Best Maternity Packages in Ludhiana
  8. Best Maternity Packages in Mumbai
  9. Best Maternity Packages in New Delhi
  10. Best Maternity Packages in Noida
  11. Best Maternity Packages in Panchkula
  12. Best Maternity Packages in Pune

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many days following embryo transfer do you start to notice symptoms?

Symptoms may start as early as a few days or two weeks after the transfer. It is different for each woman.

2. How can I determine if the embryo has implanted?

Minor cramping, spotting, or tenderness of the breasts can be signs of implantation, though only through a beta hCG test can it be confirmed.

3. Is it normal to have no symptoms following embryo transfer?

Yes, certain women have no symptoms but end up with a successful pregnancy. The absence of symptoms is not failure.

4. How can I tell if an embryo transfer failed?

Only a pregnancy test, most often a blood test 10–14 days after the transfer, can tell you you're successful or not. Symptoms alone cannot reliably predict outcome.

Get the right solution today

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Maternity
Gynaecology
Fertility
Neonatal Care
Paediatric Care
NICU
PICU
Radiology
Physiotherapy
Nutrition and Dietetics
Breastfeeding Support
Allied Services
Stem Cell Banking
Bengaluru
Chandigarh
Chennai
Faridabad
Ghaziabad
Gurugram
Hyderabad
Jalandhar
Lucknow
Ludhiana
Mumbai
New Delhi
Noida
Panchkula
Pune
//form validation// //form validation 2//