Medically reviewed by Dr. Shaun C. Williams, MD (Updated August 20, 2025)
Nurse Practitioner Monica Moore explains why you can cross this worry off your list.
In this article:
- The Embryo Transfer Day Milestone
- 12 Common Questions About Embryo Transfer
- Can I pee (or sneeze) out my embryo?
- When will I find out if I'm pregnant or not?
- What are the early signs of pregnancy after embryo transfer?
- Is bleeding or discharge normal after embryo transfer?
- What can I do to increase my chances of successful implantation?
- How long does it take for the embryo to implant after transfer?
- Can I have sex after embryo transfer?
- Is bed rest beneficial after embryo transfer?
- What should I avoid after embryo transfer?
- What if my embryo transfer isn't successful?
- Are there any side effects from an embryo transfer?
- What happens if I get sick after embryo transfer?
- Can I go back to work after embryo transfer?
- How long does an embryo transfer take?
After an embryo transfer, it's only natural to want to do everything "right" to encourage successful implantation. Here's a breakdown of what to expect, some important IVF do's and don'ts, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about embryo transfers.
Throughout your in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, you've dealt with so many morning monitoring appointments, ultrasounds, medications, forms, phone calls, emails and consults with your doctor - you've probably stopped keeping count.
Now, the day of your long-awaited embryo transfer has finally arrived, and you want to make sure you do everything by the book in order to give that little embryo the best chance at successful implantation.
While your Care Team will of course be on standby to provide individualized support, we understand that some things you may be wondering about may feel a bit awkward to bring up to your doctor or nurse.
That's why we're here - to bust some common embryo transfer myths and answer the most frequently asked post-transfer questions!
If you've ever been worried about this, you're not alone! You'd be surprised just how many patients have similar concerns. After going through an entire IVF journey, it's only natural to want to be sure your little embryo will be safe and secure after transfer!
So...can you pee, sneeze, cough or jump too hard and stop your embryo from successfully implanting? Nope! Once that embryo is transferred, it's going to stay put.
Your embryo simply cannot be dislodged from the uterus post-transfer due to you sneezing, coughing, peeing or other bodily functions. Though the embryo will float around in your uterus a little before finding a comfortable spot to implant, these tiny embryos aren't as fragile as you may think.
In a nutshell, don't fret! Your embryo is safe and sound. And of course, if you have any concerns you can't shake, don't hesitate to reach out to your Care Team for reassurance.
If there's one thing you know at this point in your fertility journey, it's that there is a lot of waiting involved. After your embryo transfer, you'll have to wait about 9-10 days before you return to your fertility clinic for an official pregnancy test (performed via a simple blood test).
Note: We strongly recommend waiting for that official pregnancy test instead of trying to do at-home tests during this 9-10 day waiting period post-transfer, as the medications involved in an IVF cycle can throw off your hormone levels, leading to inaccurate results.
We know it's difficult to hold off, but the blood test we do in the office will provide the most concrete answer (and save you a lot of confusion and anxiety).
This is (understandably) one of the most frequently asked questions we hear.
After all this time and effort, you're looking for any possible signs of success. It's important to note that many of the "typical" early pregnancy symptoms can also be caused by hormonal changes caused by prescribed medications. Here's why:
Remember: Having (or not having) any of these symptoms doesn't indicate the success or failure of your embryo transfer.
While it's tempting to analyze every twinge, try to relax and focus on caring for yourself during this waiting period. The blood pregnancy test around 9-10 days after transfer is the only sure way to confirm pregnancy.
Resist the urge to take early at-home tests, as they are less accurate and can lead to unnecessary anxiety.
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Light bleeding or spotting after an embryo transfer is common, and looks like a light pink or brown discharge. It is not abundant and lasts up to 48 hours. You might only notice the spotting when wiping.
Note: Contact your Care Team right away if the bleeding is heavy, doesn't stop within a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as severe cramping or nausea.
If you notice extra vaginal discharge, don't panic! This can be caused by the influx of hormones and blood flow to the reproductive organs, and is one of the body's ways to protect the uterus from infections.
Discharge post-transfer is typically a result of any vaginal medications (like progesterone) that you may be on to encourage implantation. It can appear powdery or gel-like, depending on the situation.
Actually, yes!
While so many pieces of the fertility puzzle feel completely out of your control, there are some key things you can do surrounding your embryo transfer to help increase your odds of successful embryo implantation. Here are a few tips:
This non-invasive, painless treatment has been shown to significantly increase implantation rates when performed before and after embryo transfer. At Illume, we even have an amazing Acupuncture Team on standby for your big day!
Read our guide to fertility acupuncture or reach out to our acupuncturists directly for more information.
While we will never tell you to "just relax" during your fertility journey, reducing stress around embryo transfer day is helpful (not just for your physical health, but your mental health).
Speak with a friend or counselor, connect with our community, practice meditating with the help of an app or free YouTube video, dress in your comfiest clothes, and keep your environment as relaxing as possible.
Reach out to your fertility nurse with any questions or concerns about timing or dosage. Also make sure you have enough of each of your medications, especially if you are traveling during your cycle.
Your Care Team works hard to carefully design a personalized medication protocol to give you the highest chance of success!
The answer to this question really depends on the maturity of your specific embryo, but generally, implantation typically takes place anywhere from 1-5 days after your embryo transfer.
It's best to wait to have sex until after your official pregnancy test (9-10 days after embryo transfer). Here are the main reasons doctors recommend waiting to resume sexual activity:
Directly following your embryo transfer at Illume Fertility, you will rest for 20 minutes before you are discharged that day. Many patients ask if they need to go home and be on bed rest afterward, but there has been no benefit found to going on bed rest after transfer.
You can go about your daily life as you feel comfortable!
However, you should be mindful of how you're feeling, and not do any heavy lifting or intense exercise for the next few days, because we want you to feel confident that you have created the best uterine environment to allow implantation to take place.
While your Care Team will provide specific instructions, here are some general tips on what to avoid after an embryo transfer to optimize implantation and your overall well-being:
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While no one wants to receive the news that their embryo transfer wasn't successful, our team of reproductive endocrinologists here at Illume Fertility work hard to develop the optimal fertility treatment plan for each and every patient to maximize their chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Every situation is different, but as frustrating as it is, sometimes it just takes a few IVF cycles to fine-tune your protocol and achieve success. Know that you're in great hands as you move forward, and the odds are in your favor.
If your transfer doesn't result in a positive pregnancy test, it's normal to feel upset and wonder what to do next. Trust that your Care Team will come together to rally around you, offer support, and help you figure out the best next step.
The embryo transfer procedure has little to no side effects other than (hopefully) pregnancy!
So while there aren't any side effects typically associated with the actual embryo transfer itself, the side effects of taking progesterone and estrogen can often mimic early pregnancy symptoms. The good news? They tend to be mild.
Common side effects:
Everybody is different - some patients report little to no side effects, and others experience some discomfort. Always reach out to your Care Team if you have any concerns.
Even if you happen to get sick after your embryo transfer and experience some vomiting, your embryo won't be bothered - it will stay right where it's meant to be, tucked cozily inside your uterus. Minor illnesses shouldn't affect your embryo's ability to successfully implant in the uterus.
However, you should always contact your doctor if you develop a fever or have concerns.
Yes, most patients return to normal activities the same day of their embryo transfer, unless otherwise advised. There is no need to factor in recovery time post-transfer.
The embryo transfer itself is a very quick procedure, usually lasting only 15 to 30 minutes from start to finish. Most of that time is spent getting you settled in the exam room, positioning you comfortably, preparing the catheter and ultrasound equipment, verifying your identity, and confirming which embryo has been selected for transfer.
The actual placement of the embryo into the uterus typically takes just a few minutes.
Patients are often surprised by how simple and efficient this step feels compared to the many weeks of monitoring, medications, and procedures that lead up to it. There is no need for anesthesia, and you remain awake the entire time, much like during a Pap smear.
Key Takeaways About Embryo Transfer
- An embryo transfer is a short, painless procedure that takes 15–30 minutes.
- Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
- Common side effects include mild cramping, spotting, or bloating.
- Pregnancy testing is typically accurate 9–14 days after transfer.
- IVF success rates depend on age, embryo quality, and medical history.
We know that the time period after your embryo transfer is filled with a variety of emotions. You've gone through so much just to get to this point. Be proud of how far you've come!
As your embryo embarks on its incredible journey of development, try to focus on your own physical and emotional well-being. Keep trusting in your body and the wonders of science, and know that no matter the outcome, you are resilient.
If you've been through unsuccessful fertility treatment cycles before, it can be difficult to stay hopeful as you try again. But we see your strength and perseverance, and we're here to cheer you on and support you the whole way.
Struggling to shake your anxiety and remain optimistic? Our OB-GYN friend Dr. Shieva Ghofrany has some beautiful advice about why you should still celebrate each step and get your hopes up, even when it feels hard.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not replace guidance from your physician or healthcare team. Always consult a qualified medical professional with any questions or concerns about your individual situation.