Dr. Aruna Ashok MBBS, MS OG, DNB OG
- Clinical Director
Aruna Ashok | 10 June 2025
Embarking on the journey of IVF (in vitro fertilization) is a significant emotional and physical step. After all the hormone injections, blood tests, ultrasounds, and procedures, the embryo transfer is the moment many hopeful parents have been waiting for. But what happens next? If you're wondering about positive signs after embryo transfer, you're not alone. This is one of the most asked questions during the dreaded "two-week wait."
In this guide, we'll explore the potential positive symptoms you might notice after embryo transfer—and what they could mean.
Before we dive into the signs, let's quickly understand what an embryo transfer is.
Embryo transfer is the final step in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process. After eggs are fertilized with sperm in a lab, the resulting embryo(s) are monitored for a few days. Once a healthy embryo is ready, your fertility specialist places it into your uterus using a thin catheter.
From there, nature takes the lead—and you begin the two-week wait to see if implantation was successful and pregnancy begins.
Many people hope for signs in the first few days after transfer. But here's the truth: it's still very early. The embryo needs time to implant and send out hormones that your body reacts to.
Most signs don't show up immediately. Typically, you may begin to notice changes about 5 to 10 days post-transfer, especially if the embryo has successfully implanted and started releasing hCG—the pregnancy hormone.
That said, some subtle signs might appear earlier and give you clues.
Let's explore common positive signs after embryo transfer that could indicate successful implantation and early pregnancy.
A light pulling, cramping, or twinging sensation in the lower abdomen is one of the first potential signs.
Why it happens: As the embryo attempts to implant in the uterine lining, it can cause slight irritation or movement that you might feel.
Tip: These cramps are usually gentler than period cramps and don't last long. But not feeling cramps doesn't mean implantation didn't happen—everyone's body is different.
This one often causes worry, but a minor spotting after embryo transfer can be a good sign.
Why it happens: Known as implantation bleeding, this can occur when the embryo burrows into the uterine lining, and tiny blood vessels break.
It's usually light pink or brown—not heavy, not bright red.
When: Typically 6–10 days after the transfer.
Are your breasts feeling sore or fuller than usual? That could be a positive sign.
Why it happens: Rising levels of hormones like progesterone and hCG can lead to breast changes early in pregnancy.
You might also notice your bra feeling snug or sensitive nipples.
Feeling unusually tired? You could nap at any moment. It might not just be the stress—it could be your body reacting to early pregnancy.
Why it happens: After implantation, the body starts ramping up hormones to support a potential pregnancy. This hormonal shift can zap your energy.
Even everyday tasks might feel more tiring.
Are you suddenly heading to the bathroom more than usual?
Why it happens: The growing levels of hCG and progesterone after implantation can increase blood flow to your pelvic area, putting more pressure on the bladder.
This usually kicks in closer to the time your period would be due—but for some, it starts earlier.
Smells that never bothered you may suddenly feel overwhelming—and your favourite food might make you feel queasy.
Why it happens: Hormonal changes can heighten your sense of smell and mess with your taste preferences.
A strong reaction to certain foods or smells—especially when paired with nausea—can be a promising sign.
Morning sickness often doesn't begin until 6 weeks of pregnancy. But some people experience subtle nausea earlier.
Why it happens: hCG is the hormone behind this queasiness. If your embryo is implanted early, you may begin to feel small waves of nausea, especially in the mornings or after eating.
Keeping snacks nearby and staying hydrated can help.
Tearing up at a commercial? Snapping at your partner over socks? Emotional roller coasters are standard.
Why it happens: Hormones play a huge role in mood. After a successful implantation, your body begins creating the hormonal environment for pregnancy—which includes emotional ups and downs.
Remember, this could also be due to the stress and anticipation of the two-week wait.
Some people report feeling bloated, gassy, or having constipation after an embryo transfer.
Why it happens: Progesterone—either from supplements or natural production—slows digestion to help the uterus prepare for pregnancy.
Light walks, warm fluids, and gentle stretching can ease the discomfort.
This may come as a surprise, but having no symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you're not pregnant. Some people feel completely normal after embryo transfer and still get a positive test.
Everyone's body responds differently to implantation and early pregnancy. Some people are susceptible to hormonal changes, while others barely notice them.
Priya, 34, underwent her first IVF cycle. After embryo transfer, she experienced light spotting on Day 6, mild cramps, and tender breasts. She was nervous but hopeful.
On Day 10, she took a home pregnancy test—and saw two faint lines. A blood test confirmed her pregnancy.
Not every story is like Priya's—but her case shows how minor symptoms can be encouraging.
Here's the tricky part: many symptoms after embryo transfer—like bloating, cramping, breast tenderness—can be caused by progesterone supplements, not pregnancy itself.
So, how do you distinguish between them?
You can't. Only a beta hCG blood test around Day 9–12 post-transfer can confirm pregnancy.
Still, paying attention to your body and noticing gentle changes can be encouraging signs.
These could indicate an infection or a rare condition like ectopic pregnancy. Always reach out to your fertility clinic if something feels off.
It's hard—we know. This waiting period is full of anxiety and hope. Here are some simple tips:
The days after embryo transfer are filled with hope, nerves, and a whole lot of "What does this mean?" While there are positive signs after embryo transfer that could hint at pregnancy, they aren't guarantees—and not having any symptoms doesn't mean it didn't work.
Instead of reading into every cramp and twinge, try to stay calm, care for yourself, and let your body do its work.
Remember: IVF is a journey, and every step—symptoms or not—is part of your path toward parenthood.
