In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) allows you to overcome many factors of infertility. Today, there are several protocols by which the procedure is carried out. This technology is implemented either in the natural cycle, or after the patients have previously undergone therapy. 8-10 days after replanting embryos in the uterus, a restructuring occurs in the female body associated with a change in hormonal levels.
Negative test - what does it mean?
The hCG test is one of the most reliable methods for early diagnosis of gestation after IVF. The content of human chorionic gonadotropin in the blood serum begins to increase after implantation of the blastocyst into the uterine lining. By the concentration of hCG, you can determine:
- the likelihood of interruption of gestation;
- pathological development of the placenta;
- multiple pregnancy;
- chromosomal diseases, etc.
Too low hCG can signal fetal freezing or ectopic pregnancy. According to statistics, the frequency of ectopic pregnancy after IVF does not exceed 1.5-3%.
The rate of increase in the concentration of the hormone in the body largely depends on which embryos were implanted into the uterus. Blastocysts of five days of age are introduced into the endometrium within 48 hours after the procedure, and those of three days of age - 3-4 days after the procedure.
If the test is negative on day 9 after the embryo transfer , this does not always indicate the absence of pregnancy. Yes, the peak concentration of hCG in the body is reached 8-12 days after IVF. But it can only be determined by donating blood for analysis. Routine pharmacy tests measure urinary hCG levels, which can be very different from serum levels.
The most optimal period for the hCG test is 12-14 days after the blastocyst is transplanted into the uterus. If the indicator is between 25 and 100, such a test result is regarded as questionable. Therefore, the blood test is repeated after 2-3 days.
Discharge after IVF
Vaginal discharge after IVF is a natural process caused by changes in the hormonal background. By the amount and nature of the discharge, one can indirectly judge the features of the course of pregnancy in the early stages. An increase in the viscosity and amount of vaginal secretions may be associated with the woman taking hormonal agents and artificially maintaining the required acidity level in the reproductive organs.
On the 9th day after the embryo transfer, the discharge can be as follows:
- brown (cream, pale pink, beige);
- increased viscosity;
- scanty in volume;
- odorless.
At the same time, when this symptom appears in women, other signs of pregnancy may appear. On the 9th day after the embryo transfer, many patients have a stomach ache, dizziness and nausea.
Pathological vaginal secretions after IVF
The reason for the appearance of certain types of vaginal discharge may not be physiological, but pathological factors. The main signs of non-physiological changes in the body include:
- release of a viscous yellow-green secretion;
- discomfort in the genitals (itching, burning);
- secret blood streaks on day 9 after IVF;
- cheesy discharge with an unpleasant odor.
The appearance of yellow-green mucus is associated with the development of infection inside the reproductive organs. If this symptom appears, you should seek the help of a specialist. Untimely response to the problem can cause the pregnancy to freeze or its pathological course.
The most dangerous are bright red or brown vaginal secretions from the 14th day after the transfer of the blastocyst. Symptoms can be caused by:
- rejection of the embryo;
- freezing of the fetus;
- insufficient hormonal support.
If a meager amount of secretion with minor blood impurities appears before 12-14 days after the embryo transfer, there is nothing to worry about. In most cases, this indicates implantation bleeding, which does not threaten the life of the mother or fetus.
Symptoms after IVF
In many women, for 9 days after embryo transfer, the stomach pulls , vaginal discharge appears, appetite decreases and emotional lability manifests itself. The described symptoms arise due to hormonal changes in the body, as well as the introduction of a blastocyst into the uterine cavity. You can be convinced of the onset of pregnancy already 12-14 days after IVF by taking a blood test for hCG content.
Also, possible specific sensations on day 9 after embryo transfer include:
- drowsiness;
- nausea;
- dizziness;
- swelling of the mammary glands;
- quick mood swings.
It is very important to monitor your own well-being after IVF to identify possible complications. For example, some patients develop gonadal hyperstimulation syndrome on the background of preliminary hormonal treatment. Its occurrence may be evidenced by:
- bloating;
- swelling of the limbs;
- decreased visual acuity;
- headache.
To increase the chances of successful conception, women should adhere to these rules within two weeks after IVF:
- sleep 8-9 hours a day;
- normalize the diet;
- wear loose and comfortable clothing;
- avoid overheating and hypothermia;
- exclude sexual intercourse for a while;
- observe non-strict bed rest for 2 days after embryo replanting.
Do not panic if, on the 9th day after the blastocyst transplant, signs of pregnancy do not occur. This period is still too short for the appearance of a pronounced clinical picture. Most often, pulling abdominal pain, nausea and other symptoms are the result of hormonal support and psycho-emotional experiences of the patient.
