In vitro fertilization with donor eggs is an assisted reproduction technique in which an egg (from a donor) and sperm (either from the partner or from a sperm donor) are united in the laboratory to produce embryos that can then be placed into the uterus with the aim of achieving pregnancy. The donor eggs are fertilized in the laboratory using one of the two variations of the IVF technique, conventional IVF or ICSI, both of which give high success rates.
The use of donor eggs, sometimes referred to as ovodonation, has helped many people who are unable to use their own gametes fulfil their dreams of becoming parents. Indeed, the treatment results in some of the highest success rates in assisted reproduction treatments. One of the reasons is that the donated eggs come from young, healthy women who have been previously screened extensively for any infectious or genetic diseases. These oocytes are of excellent quality and help maximize the chances of success of the treatment.
Some of the most frequently asked questions from our patients are regarding the symptoms experienced after the embryo transfer. Therefore, in this post we will explain what is an embryo transfer, what are the most common symptoms after an egg donor IVF treatment and how long they last.
What is an embryo transfer?
One of the most important stages of the process of donor egg IVF is the embryo transfer. This is the final stage of the treatment before taking the pregnancy test and involves the best quality embryo being introduced into the patient’s uterus via a specialized catheter.
The procedure is simple and painless and does not require sedation or anesthesia. Additionally, before the procedure is carried out, a series of ultrasounds will be performed and the uterus prepared, so that the endometrium is at the required thickness needed to be able to receive the embryo without any problems.
Main symptoms post implantation after ivf with egg donation
The symptoms and possible discomforts that can occur during a donor egg IVF treatment shouldn’t affect the patient’s ability to carry on with her every day life. Some of the most common symptoms experienced after embryo implantation following IVF with egg donation are:
- Fatigue and tiredness
- An increase urge to urinate
- Light spotting or bleeding
- Tender or swollen breasts or abdomen
- Pelvic discomfort or mild pain
- Increased vaginal discharge
What other symptoms can occur after embryo implantation?
Other symptoms that women sometimes experience after embryo implantation include:
- Liquid retention
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Difficulties in sleeping and insomnia
- Lower back pain
- Cramping similar to menstrual cramps
As well as these physical symptoms of implantation after egg donation IVF, we mustn’t forget the emotional aspects. The two week wait after the transfer and before the pregnancy test can cause stress and anxiety, leading to the patient feeling low. As such, it is always a good idea to keep busy and the mind occupied with interesting activities that help to avoid obsessing over the results of the upcoming test and the development of the embryo.
How long do post implantation symptoms last?
After the embryo transfer procedure the patient can carry on with her normal life, taking into account any recommendations given by her specialist to not put the potential pregnancy at risk, such as avoiding smoking, high-intensity sports or stressful situations.
Any symptoms associated with IVF with egg donation usually appear in the first few days following the embryo transfer. However, it is also perfectly possible to have no symptoms at all after the transfer, and this is also completely normal.
At Ovoclinic we have a specialist team of proven experts in the field of IVF and egg donation, and very high success rates. If you are interested in this treatment, any other assisted reproduction technique, or you have any queries, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We will be happy to provide you with an assessment and find the best possible solution to suit your needs.