Have you recently undergone an embryo transfer? Then, you should be very much excited about your pregnancy results.
However, amidst this excitement, there is one thing that can make you anxious and worried: certain painful symptoms. One such symptom is pelvic pain after an embryo transfer.
What are the causes of pelvic pain after embryo transfer? And what treatment options are there to relieve the pain without affecting IVF success? Let’s discuss all about them in this article.
Causes Of Pelvic Pain After An Embryo Transfer
It is normal for you to feel certain symptoms or side effects after an embryo transfer. This includes slight abdomen and pelvic pain for some days after the procedure.
Pelvic pain might be caused due to a lot of factors. Some might be minor, and some major issues that can affect your pregnancy. Here are some factors that cause pelvic pain after embryo transfer.
Catheter Placement
During embryo transfer, a thin, flexible tube called the catheter will be inserted into your uterus to release the embryo. This catheter insertion can sometimes irritate your vagina, cervix, or uterus when it comes in contact with them. This can cause mild cramps or pain in your lower pelvic regions.
Infection
You might also get pelvic pain from infections after an embryo transfer. The catheter and other instruments used during the procedure will be completely sterile so as to not pass on any germs or bacteria into your reproductive system.
However, if by any chance some harmful bacteria enter your uterus, it can cause PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), which can cause pelvic pain. You will also get pelvic pain if you already have an infection that was aggravated by the embryo transfer procedure.
Cramping
Cramping is one of the common causes of pelvic pain after embryo transfer. These cramps can be caused due to various reasons. It might be because of the embryo transfer procedure when the speculum is inserted into your vagina, or it might be during implantation when the embryo settles deep into the uterus.
Both can cause cramps, which can lead to pelvic pain. However, this pain is temporary and will disappear in a few days.
Stretching Of The Uterine Muscles
After implantation, your uterine muscles will start to stretch or contract to accommodate the growing embryo. Your blood flow also increases to the uterus. These two factors can also be a cause of your pelvic pain.
Treatments For Pelvic Pain After Embryo Transfer
Do you have pelvic pain and are looking for any treatment options to relieve it? Then do not worry. Here are some effective treatment options that can help you reduce pelvic pain after embryo transfer.
Pain Medication
If you have pelvic pain after embryo transfer and feel like you need painkillers to relieve the pain, there are certain over-the-counter medications you can take.
However, ensure you discuss this with your doctor first before taking the medication. Certain medications can affect your pregnancy, so only take medications that your fertility doctor suggests.
Rest Well
Embryo transfer and the entire IVF process can be tiring. It is essential for you to give your body a much-needed rest for a few days after embryo transfer. This can also help you alleviate pelvic pain or any other pain or discomfort you feel during this period.
Physical Therapy
You can also go for physical therapy to relax your body muscles and alleviate any pain you might feel. Physical therapies can also help improve blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and help you manage pain better.
Conclusion
If you have tried all these methods and still couldn’t reduce pelvic pain, it is best to visit your fertility doctor and get checked. It is fine if it is nothing; however, if it is a serious issue, it is best not to wait and get treated immediately.
After the IVF procedure, your pelvis will be exhausted and will require some rest. It is best not to engage in tiring activities and to rest for a few days. Your pelvis will need at least 2–4 weeks of rest to recover from the embryo transfer and implantation.
Here are some of the positive signs you might experience after embryo transfer.
- Light spotting or implantation bleeding
- Abdominal or pelvic cramps
- Tender breasts
- Nausea & vomiting
- Fatigue
- Increased frequency of urination
- Vaginal discharge
Yes, you might get mild lower abdominal pain after embryo transfer. However, the pain will mostly be minimal and will reduce in a few days. Consult your doctor if the pain does not decrease in a few days.
