Surrogates

Twinges After Embryo Transfer

Twinges after embryo transfer can be a normal part of the process and typically occur due to implantation, hormonal changes, or uterine contractions.

In this article we will outline what you can expect when you feel twinges after embryo transfer and how you can handle them.

As a surrogate, health concerns should always be shared with your medical team. A surrogacy professional can help you navigate communication with the intended family and understand the medical process. Get help from a surrogacy professional here.

Twinges After Embryo Transfer

Twinges after embryo transfer can come in the form of mild pain or cramping. You may feel pulling, slight prickling feelings, or brief cramping. These feelings are typically mild, but in some cases they can be more severe and require medical intervention.

Twinges can be felt in multiple places. Some women experience twinges on the left side or right side after embryo transfer, some women may feel abdominal twinges after embryo transfer, and some women may have pelvic twinges or back twinges after embryo transfer.

What Causes Twinges After Embryo Transfer?

Twinges or mild cramping can be caused by several factors during the IVF process, including:

The embryo might be implanting into the uterine lining, which can cause mild twinging or cramping sensations. This usually happens around 6-10 days after the transfer.

The hormones used in IVF, especially progesterone, can cause mild cramping or twinging. These hormonal changes affect your uterus and can lead to sensations like mild cramps or pulling.

After the transfer, your uterus might contract as part of the body's natural healing process or response to the medications, which could cause occasional twinges or discomfort.

The embryo transfer process itself can sometimes cause slight irritation or trauma to the cervix, leading to brief twinging sensations.

Want to know more about how IVF medications affect your body? Our guide can provide further insights.

Is it Normal to Have Twinges After Embryo Transfer?

Yes, it can be normal to have brief twinges or cramps after embryo transfer, and in some cases this can be an indication of embryo implantation. If you have severe cramping or cramping that doesn’t subside, or if you have other symptoms, it may indicate other issues.

What to Do About Twinges After Embryo Transfer

1. Take It Easy and Rest

Rest and avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting, intense exercise, or anything that could put undue pressure on your abdomen. Gentle rest allows your body to heal and can help reduce any discomfort.

Avoid stress: Emotional stress during the two-week wait can increase physical symptoms. Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, light walking, or meditation to calm both your mind and body.

2. Monitor the Intensity and Duration

Mild twinges or cramps are typically nothing to worry about, but if the sensations become severe, persistent, or are accompanied by heavy bleeding, it’s important to contact your fertility clinic.

If the twinges are brief and feel like mild pulling or pressure, they are most likely related to implantation or hormonal changes.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can sometimes contribute to cramping and twinging sensations. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and to help your body manage the stress of the IVF process.

4. Cold or Heat

Warm or cold compresses or heat pads can be helpful for mild cramping. Be sure the heat is not too hot and avoid placing heat directly on the abdomen. Apply it gently to relieve tension in the muscles of the lower abdomen.

5. Avoid Certain Activities

Avoid any vigorous activity that could increase pressure on your abdomen or uterus, including sex (unless otherwise instructed by your doctor), as this can sometimes cause more irritation or discomfort.

No douching or using tampons after the transfer, as this can disrupt the healing process or irritate the cervix.

Call Your Doctor If

While mild twinges are usually harmless, you should monitor for other signs that might indicate a problem, including:

Heavy bleeding (similar to a period or more).
Severe cramping that doesn\'t subside.
Painful or sharp cramps.
Fever or chills.

If any of these more severe symptoms occur, contact your doctor immediately.

If you’re unsure about the twinges or if they become concerning, don’t hesitate to contact your fertility clinic. They can advise you on whether your symptoms are normal and may recommend a blood test to check hCG levels or other diagnostics to ensure everything is progressing well.

Keep in mind that each pregnancy and IVF cycle is unique, and your doctor can give you the best personalized guidance.

Other Common Symptoms After Embryo Transfer

In addition to twinges, you may have symptoms like nausea, upset stomach, mood changes, light spotting and fatigue. Read more here.

Reach out to your clinic if you have any concerns about your symptoms. If you need support during your two week wait, reach out and get help from a surrogacy professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are twinges normal after embryo transfer?

Yes, mild twinges or cramping are common after an embryo transfer due to the implantation process or the effects of hormonal medications.

Do you get twinges after implantation?

Yes, some women experience twinges or mild cramping after implantation as the embryo attaches to the uterine lining.

Does progesterone cause twinges?

Yes, progesterone can cause mild twinges, bloating, or cramping as it affects the uterus and digestive system.

What are the sensations after embryo transfer?

After embryo transfer, women may experience mild cramping, bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, or nausea due to the hormonal treatments and the body adjusting to early pregnancy changes.