Upset Stomach After Embryo Transfer

Upset stomach after embryo can be common and can happen for a variety of reasons, from hormonal changes to stress.

In many cases the upset stomach is temporary, while other may experience more persistent symptoms, especially if pregnancy begins.

In this article, we will share what to expect if you experience upset stomach after embryo transfer, and how you can take care of yourself at home.

Consult your clinic if you are concerned about any of your symptoms. Learn more about what to expect as a surrogate here, or learn more about the medical process from a surrogacy professional.

Upset Stomach after Embryo Transfer

Upset stomach may come in the form of gas, bloating, mild cramping or pulling, and nausea sensations.

What Causes Upset Stomach after Embryo Transfer?

Upset stomach after embryo transfer can be caused by hormonal medications, stress and anxiety, inactivity, ovarian stimulation, implantation, and changes in diet.

When Might an Upset Stomach After Embryo Transfer Occur?

Some women report upset stomach day after embryo transfer, while others have upset stomach later. An upset stomach 1-2 days after embryo transfer or more is not generally a cause for concern, and in some cases, women have upset stomach throughout the first trimester of pregnancy (known as morning sickness).

What to Do About Upset Stomach after Embryo Transfer

1. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can worsen stomach discomfort, so aim to keep hydrated with water or herbal teas (e.g., ginger or peppermint, which can help with nausea).

2. Eat Light, Bland Foods

• Eating small, frequent meals of bland foods (e.g., crackers, toast, rice, or bananas) can help soothe an upset stomach.
• Avoid spicy, greasy, or heavy foods that might irritate your stomach further.
• Avoid foods that you know are hard on your digestive system, like dairy or caffeine, if they tend to upset your stomach.

3. Take It Easy

If you’re feeling nauseous or have an upset stomach, avoid strenuous activity and take things easy. Resting can help your body relax and recover from the physical effects of IVF medication and stress.

4. Try Ginger or Peppermint

Ginger and peppermint are well-known remedies for nausea and digestive discomfort. You can try:

• Drinking ginger tea.
• Chewing on ginger candies.
• Drinking peppermint tea.

These natural remedies can help settle an upset stomach and ease nausea.

5. Avoid Stress

The two-week wait after an embryo transfer can be emotionally stressful, and anxiety can exacerbate stomach discomfort. Try some relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, gentle yoga, or meditation to help calm your mind and reduce stress.

6. Monitor Your Medications

Some of the medications you’re taking during IVF (like progesterone, whether oral, injectable, or via suppositories) can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, bloating, or constipation.

If you think your medications are contributing to your upset stomach, reach out to your fertility clinic to discuss adjustments or alternatives.

7. Rest and Relax

Resting and lying down may help alleviate discomfort, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. However, avoid lying flat immediately after eating, as it might worsen stomach issues. Try propping up your head and chest with a pillow to remain more upright.

8. Over-the-Counter Remedies

If your stomach issues are mild, you may find relief with over-the-counter remedies like antacids or anti-nausea medications, but only after consulting with your doctor to ensure they’re safe to use during your IVF process.

Call Your Doctor if

Stomach upset after embryo transfer is generally not severe, but it is always good to check on any concerns you have with a doctor.

If the upset stomach persists, or if it becomes severe (e.g., vomiting, intense cramping, or severe bloating), contact your fertility clinic. It’s important to rule out any complications related to the embryo transfer, the medications, or potential pregnancy issues.

Your doctor may also be able to adjust your medication if necessary.

Keep an eye out for any symptoms beyond just an upset stomach. Fever, severe cramping, or bright red bleeding could indicate an issue that requires immediate medical attention.

Other Common Symptoms After Embryo Transfer

In addition to upset stomach after embryo transfer, many women experience light cramping, spotting, and sore breasts. Read more about symptoms to expect here.

If you are experiencing persistent or severe symptoms, consulting a medical professional can help address any concerns or adjust medications if needed.  Connect with a surrogacy professional to help you navigate communication with the intended family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to have stomach problem after embryo transfer?

Yes, it’s quite normal to experience stomach problems after embryo transfer due to hormonal changes, medications, lifestyle and diet changes, and stress and anxiety.

Can you get an upset stomach after implantation?

Yes, it is possible to experience an upset stomach around the time of implantation (typically 6–10 days after embryo transfer). As the embryo implants into the uterine lining, there are significant hormonal changes in your body, including a rise in hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), the pregnancy hormone. This can lead to:

• Nausea or mild indigestion.
• Bloating.
• Mild cramping or discomfort in the lower abdomen.

However, an upset stomach at this stage can also be a side effect of the progesterone medications used during IVF, and not necessarily a direct result of implantation.

Can an upset stomach affect implantation?

No, an upset stomach is not likely to affect implantation. Implantation occurs when the embryo embeds itself into the uterine lining, and this process is influenced primarily by hormonal signals and the health of the uterine lining. While nausea or other stomach symptoms might be uncomfortable, they don’t interfere with the implantation process itself.

Is it normal to have a weird feeling in your stomach after embryo transfer?

Yes, it is normal to feel a weird sensation in your stomach after embryo transfer. The sensations you might feel include:

• Bloating or gas: Caused by the hormones used in IVF or the medications you’re taking.
• Mild cramping or pulling sensations: These can occur due to hormonal shifts or the embryo implanting in the uterus.
• Nausea: The hormonal medications, along with the emotional stress of the two-week wait, can lead to an upset stomach or nausea.

These feelings are often temporary and should not be a cause for concern unless they are severe or accompanied by other symptoms like heavy bleeding, intense pain, or vomiting. If you’re concerned, it’s always best to reach out to your fertility doctor for advice.