The Two Week Wait: Waiting for Pregnancy Results After IVF

The two-week wait after an embryo transfer during IVF can feel like one of the longest periods in the fertility journey. After the emotional, physical, and financial investment of IVF, this period of time can carry high anticipation and, often, some anxiety. Whether you’re new to IVF or seeking a deeper understanding of what to expect, this guide covers the physical, emotional, and practical aspects of the two-week wait and what it means for achieving pregnancy after IVF.

What Happens During the Two-Week Wait?

The two-week wait after an embryo transfer is a critical time when the embryo attempts to implant in the uterine lining and start the process of pregnancy. Here’s a general timeline:

Days 1–5:

• After transfer, the embryo travels to the uterus and begins the process of implantation. If successful, it attaches to the uterine lining.

Days 6–10:

• The implanted embryo starts to produce hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), also known as the pregnancy hormone.

Days 11–14:

• Your clinic will schedule a beta hCG blood test to confirm pregnancy and evaluate whether hCG levels are rising appropriately.

Physical Symptoms During the Two-Week Wait

While every individual’s experience varies, many patients report a mix of physical sensations during the two-week wait. However, it’s important to remember that these symptoms may be caused by fertility medications rather than pregnancy itself.

Cramping or Spotting:

• Light cramping or spotting may occur as the embryo implants. This is known as implantation bleeding and is typically lighter than a menstrual period.

Breast Tenderness:

• Hormonal changes caused by medications or early pregnancy may result in breast soreness or sensitivity.

Fatigue:

• Increased hormone levels and the emotional toll of the wait can leave you feeling tired.

Bloating:

• Hormones like progesterone can cause bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort.

No Symptoms at All:

• Lack of symptoms is entirely normal. Absence of symptoms does not mean the treatment has failed.

During your two-week wait, your Spring Fertility care team will be available via the Salve app should any questions arise about symptoms you may be experiencing. 

Emotional Wellbeing During the Two-Week Wait

The two-week wait can be emotionally intense. It’s normal to experience a mix of excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty. Some ways to support emotional well-being during this period include:

Journaling or Mindfulness Practices:

• Writing down your feelings or practicing mindfulness can help manage anxiety. Our medication content collection “Support for Your Fertility Journey,” created in partnership with Headspace

Connecting with Others:

• Online forums, support groups, or close friends can provide understanding and support, especially if they have gone through similar fertility journeys. At Spring Fertility, we offer support group and individual/couple counseling services with our in-house clinical psychologists for those seeking additional support. 

Self-care Activities:

• Engaging in enjoyable activities, from reading to light exercise, can help occupy your mind and keep stress at bay.

Focus on your health and wellness:

• Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and prioritize rest. Gentle activities like walking or yoga can promote relaxation. Always consult with your doctor to understand what you should be doing to care for your unique physiology through this period, which may include prescribed medications and specific post-transfer guidelines.

While it is certainly tempting to take at-home pregnancy tests during the waiting period, testing too early can yield inaccurate results, causing unnecessary stress. It’s best to wait for your clinic’s beta hCG blood test. To the best of your ability, avoiding any activities or scenarios that cause additional unnecessary stress should be avoided, while you focus on your own health and wellness.

The Two-Week Wait & the Pregnancy Test

The “two-week wait” is a commonly used term, though many clinics advise taking a pregnancy test about 9-12 days after the transfer. Blood tests, known as beta hCG tests, measure the levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced after embryo implantation. This test is a more accurate measure of early pregnancy than home pregnancy tests and will be performed by your fertility clinic.

First Beta Test:

• This initial hCG test will give the first indication of pregnancy. Most clinics look for an hCG level of around 100 mIU/mL or higher, though it can vary. Anything above 25 mIU/mL is generally considered indicative of pregnancy, but your provider will let you know what range they’re hoping to see.

Second Beta Test:

• A follow-up test, usually scheduled two days after the first, will check if hCG levels are doubling, as they should in a healthy early pregnancy. If these levels increase as expected, the clinic may confirm the pregnancy and schedule an ultrasound for the coming weeks.

If the beta test reveals low or decreasing hCG levels, it may indicate that the embryo did not implant successfully, leading to a chemical pregnancy. This can be a difficult outcome, but fertility specialists will typically schedule a follow-up to discuss the next steps if the pregnancy isn’t progressing.

Preparing for What Comes Next

Spring Fertility patients can complete pregnancy ultrasounds at their Spring clinic to confirm if their embryo transfer resulted in a confirmed pregnancy. After the patient is 8 weeks pregnant, the next step is to transition into traditional prenatal care with your OB-GYN. This period is full of anticipation and milestones as you begin regular prenatal care and prepare for the journey ahead.

However, if the transfer doesn’t result in pregnancy, your fertility specialist will work with you to review the process, discuss possible changes to the treatment plan, and outline potential next steps. They may suggest additional tests, an adjustment in medication, or another transfer cycle depending on your unique case and goals.