What Happens in the Process of IVF Implantation?
Fertilisation occurs in the fallopian tube, where the ovaries release their eggs. When the sperm successfully reaches the fallopian tube and fertilises the egg, it glides down the fallopian tube and into the uterus via a small hole. After that, the fertilised egg (zygote) implants itself in the endometrium, which is the mucous-laden surface of the uterus.
When implantation does take place, the body reacts differently. When the egg leaves the ovaries, the corpus luteum (the egg’s shell in the ovary) starts producing progesterone. Because of progesterone, the uterine lining begins to prepare for the reception and implantation of an egg. If this does not occur, the body’s progesterone levels fall, the uterine lining breaks down, and the female begins to menstruate.
When implantation is successful, however, the zygote produces hCG. This not only alerts the female to pregnancy but also causes the corpus luteum to continue producing progesterone in order to strengthen the endometrium/uterine lining. Some women may develop post-implantation symptoms.
What Are the Signs of Pregnancy After Implantation?
Remember to take a pregnancy test after implantation bleeding. Females often experience a variety of symptoms prior to taking a pregnancy test. Positive symptoms of pregnancy after an IVF transfer can include:
- Breast Tenderness: There’s an increased sensitivity or tenderness in the breasts.
- Spotting or implantation Bleeding: As the embryo implants in the uterus, you may see light pink or brown spotting. This is not a universal indication, as many women may not experience it.
- Cramping: Minor, periodic cramping is normal as the uterus responds to the growing embryo.
- Fatigue: It is defined as feeling excessively tired or worn out.
- Nausea and morning sickness: Some women may have nausea or vomiting, usually in the morning.
- Changes in Basal Body Temperature: A consistently high basal body temperature may suggest pregnancy.
- Positive Pregnancy Test: A home pregnancy test or blood test with high hCG levels indicates pregnancy.
Remember that individual experiences may differ, and some symptoms might also be caused by circumstances unrelated to pregnancy. Moreover, If you feel you are pregnant following an IVF transfer, you should visit your doctor for confirmation and guidance.
When Can You Take a Pregnancy Test After Implantation?
Implantation bleeding is often confused with menstrual bleeding. In contrast to the brilliant red of period blood, implantation bleeding may seem pinkish or dark brown.
After implantation, bleeding lasts for a few hours or days and is not heavy. While period bleeding normally begins 14 days following ovulation (in a 28-day menstrual cycle), implantation bleeding can occur within 6-10 days. So, you have to wait a minimum of 6 to 10 days to take a pregnancy test after implantation bleeding.
After a week or two, you can take the test by these two methods:
- Blood test: A blood-based hCG test is often more reliable than a home pregnancy test. You can get a positive pregnancy test result 6 to 8 days after conception.
- Urine test: A urine-based pregnancy test can be used at home to detect hCG levels, but for reliable results, it’s best to wait at least 12-14 days after ovulation. If you receive a negative result, it is recommended that you try again after several days.
Conclusion
It’s important to be patient for the most accurate test results. Blood tests are generally the most reliable method for early pregnancy detection, with positive results possible as early as 6 days after transfer. Home urine tests can also be used, but waiting at least 12-14 days after ovulation increases the accuracy. If your test comes back positive, you can go to the doctor and have it verified with a blood test. We hope this blog aptly answers your question: how early can pregnancy be detected in IVF?
