If you are going through fertility treatments, one of the most anticipated moments is the pregnancy test after embryo transfer.
As a surrogate, understanding the typical timeline and why waiting is essential can help manage expectations and reduce anxiety during this critical time. In this article, we will share what to expect for pregnancy testing after embryo transfer.
You can also find out more about why women become surrogates or find out if you are eligible to become a surrogate now.
When to Take Pregnancy Test After Embryo Transfer: The Two-Week Wait
After an embryo transfer, the recommended waiting period is about 10-14 days post-transfer. This is often referred to as the “two-week wait”. This waiting period allows the embryo to implant fully and the body to begin producing hCG, the hormone that supports pregnancy.
For some women, hCG levels may take time to rise to detectable levels, so testing too early could lead to a false negative. The blood test at the clinic can detect lower levels of hCG than a home pregnancy test, which is why clinics typically recommend it for the most reliable results.
While waiting for the blood test, the clinic may provide instructions for when to take a home pregnancy test after embryo transfer, if desired. It’s important to note that the blood test is far more accurate at detecting pregnancy hormones, especially hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), compared to urine tests.
Learn more about pregnancy test results.
How Accurate is a Home Pregnancy Test After Embryo Transfer?
Home pregnancy tests are available for those who are anxious to know the results. While these tests are convenient, they are less sensitive than blood tests. If you choose to take a home pregnancy test after embryo transfer, keep in mind that a positive result might come up early enough to provide reassurance.
However, a negative result may not be as definitive—especially if you are testing before the recommended 10-14 days.
Testing at Day 7: Too Early to Detect Pregnancy?
While it might be tempting to take a pregnancy test at day 7 after embryo transfer, it is often too early for an accurate result.
You may receive a false negative pregnancy test 7 days after embryo transfer because hCG levels may be too low to be detected. Similarly, testing too early can result in a false positive pregnancy test after embryo transfer if there is still hCG in your system from your trigger shot.
Resulting in a negative pregnancy test 7 days after embryo transfer doesn’t necessarily indicate failure. It may simply be that hCG hasn’t yet reached detectable levels.
Testing at Day 10: More Accurate
By 10 days after embryo transfer, your hCG levels are likely to have risen enough to be detected by a home pregnancy test.
At this point, a pregnancy test after embryo transfer is typically more reliable. However, every pregnancy is different. Negative pregnancy tests 10 days after embryo transfer could be a result of slow-rising hCG levels that are not high enough to be detected by a home pregnancy test at this time. It’s still essential to stay in close contact with your clinic and follow their guidelines for testing and aftercare.
Understanding hCG and Its Role in Pregnancy Tests
hCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy and is the substance detected by pregnancy tests. After an embryo is transferred, it can take time for the embryo to implant into the uterine lining and begin producing hCG.
Blood tests are more sensitive and can detect lower levels of the hormone compared to home pregnancy tests, which are designed to detect higher concentrations of hCG in urine. Therefore, blood tests are the most accurate and reliable way to confirm pregnancy.
Getting a Positive Pregnancy Test After Embryo Transfer: What’s Next?
A positive pregnancy test after an embryo transfer is an exciting milestone. However, if you used an at home pregnancy test, you should still follow up with your clinic for a blood test after 14 days to confirm the pregnancy. A positive home pregnancy test is a preliminary result, and your clinic will provide the most accurate confirmation.
The HCG Beta Blood Test
If your hCG beta blood test comes back positive, congratulations, you’re pregnant! You’ll want to notify your agency and the intended parents. As a surrogate, sharing updates with the intended parents is a meaningful part of the process. Most agencies or agreements outline how and when these updates are communicated.
Receiving a Negative Pregnancy Test After Embryo Transfer
It’s important to remember that a negative pregnancy test doesn’t necessarily mean that your IVF cycle has failed. For example, if you test early, it could be too soon for your hCG levels to be detectable.
A negative result at home may simply reflect that the hormone hasn’t yet reached a detectable level in your system. This is why it’s crucial to wait for your follow-up blood test from the clinic.
As you wait for the blood test as a surrogate, you may discuss at-home pregnancy tests with the intended parents.
What to Do if the HCG Blood Test Comes Back Negative
If you do receive a negative result from the clinic’s blood test, it can be an emotional and disappointing moment. However, it’s important to remain in close communication with your fertility clinic or surrogacy professional.
They can guide you through the next steps and help you process the outcome. If you need assistance talking with your intended parents (IPs), your surrogacy professional can provide guidance and support. Honesty and transparency are key in these moments.
Stay in Close Contact with Your Clinic
Whether your result is positive or negative, it’s essential to stay in close contact with your fertility clinic during this time. They will provide instructions on follow-up care, next steps, and how to manage any emotions or medical concerns you may have.
Following all prescribed aftercare protocols is crucial for your health and well-being, as well as for the success of any future treatments.
If you are a surrogate in need of guidance after getting your hCG blood test results, you can contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can you take a pregnancy test after embryo transfer?
It is generally recommended to wait 10-14 days after embryo transfer to take a pregnancy test for the most accurate result. Some clinics may provide specific advice for testing earlier or later.
How many days after embryo transfer can I take a urine test?
A urine test is typically more accurate after 10-14 days post-transfer, though it’s always best to follow your clinic’s advice.
How quickly does hCG rise after embryo transfer?
hCG levels begin rising within a few days after embryo implantation, but it can take 10-14 days to reach levels detectable by blood or urine tests.
Can you have a negative pregnancy test day 7 after embryo transfer?
Yes, a negative pregnancy test 7 days after embryo transfer is possible and doesn’t necessarily indicate failure. It might simply be too early for pregnancy hormones to be detectable.
