Implantation
Luteal phase support / waiting for the pregnancy test - do's and don'ts: Few things are known about the circumstances surrounding implantation. Although we have some information from animal studies that can shed light on the mechanisms of implantation, still we do not know why some embryos fail to lead us to a pregnancy...
The waiting for the outcome of an IVF attempt for a woman is an incredibly difficult time, and every woman's experience will be unique. Many times a woman will change entirely her lifestyle, habits and mood. For others, the 14-day wait will be spent in bed believing this will increase the chance of pregnancy.
We are not in the position to tell you what is right or wrong, as so little is known about the implantation stage and its influences.
Except, to follow what ever advise your doctor has given you and to "take it easy"
Remember though, that under "normal" / physiological conditions you would not know for the first 14 days that an embryos grows in the womb.
Basic guidelines after the Embryo Transfer
The implantation of the embryo begins 2-3 days after the embryo transfer, so try to avoid strenuous work.
If your home is quite some distance from the hospital you can travel home the same day as the embryo transfer by any means you see fit. During the journey there is no need to be lying down. It is advisable usually to rest the following day though.
It is usually recommended to not take any other medication other than that which has been subscribed to you. If you are under any other medication you should consult with your gynaecologist. For pain relief DEPON or PONSTAN are usually recommended.
There is no need to change dietary habits, although reduce tobacco and alcohol intake.
Sexual intercourse is not allowed until the results of your pregnancy test.
According to your circumstances, medication may be prescribed which may help implantation.
1) Progesterone - in the form of an injection, vaginal suppository, cream or gel. Progesterone is a natural hormone that is produced at the early stages of pregnancy helping implantation by improving the outer layer of the uterus to accept the developing embryo..
2) A baby aspirin - this may increase blood flow to the site of implantation
3) Cortisone. Some studies have shown this may help implantation.
Also antibiotics may be administered for precautionary measures.
It is very common to have a little spotting during the luteal phase. The implanting embryo may cause an amount of bleeding-so do not be alarmed and do not discontinue you medication.
If you have a steady increase of pain with nausea and constipation, increasing bleeding, a raised temperature and discomfort, then contact your doctor immediately.
Also, the symptoms of pregnancy are also common in the 14 days or so before the test. These symptoms may come and go-do not be alarmed-and do not stop taking your medication until you know for sure if you are pregnant or not.
A slight bloating, or even pain in the pelvic region may be felt for 4 to 10 days after oocyte retrieval. This may be the result of the ovaries swelling temporarily.
If these symptoms are accompanied with a swollen abdomen, have a raised temperature and you have gained over 5 Kg over 3 days, then contact your doctor immediately.
Your Pregnancy test
Two weeks after your IVF treatment you will be asked to have a pregnancy test.
We will measure the level of the hormone HCG in the blood which will tell us if implantation has taken place.
The conformation of a clinical pregnancy comes with the amniotic sac being seen a by ultrasound scan a further 2 weeks after the pregnancy test.
If you are not pregnant you will be asked to stop the medication (e.g. progesterone) and your period should arrive in 2 to 5 days after.
If you are pregnant consult with your doctor on changes in medication. Do not discontinue you medication without speaking to him first!
If your period has not arrived in 5 days despite stopping the medication contact your doctor.
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