Since hCG is used to finalize egg maturation and to schedule egg retrieval, a pregnancy test (which is a measurement of hCG hormone in the urine or blood) will be positive for a number of days following egg retrieval. Some women will metabolize the hormone quickly and it will be out of the blood stream in a couple of days, while others may take up to 9 days to do so. Simultaneously, a pregnancy starts secreting hCG in measurable amounts in the blood approximately 1-2 days before the expected period. Keeping these two issues in mind, then, we recommend that a pregnancy test be performed 9-10 days after the embryo transfer.

The in vitro fertilization process can last anywhere from four to six weeks prior to egg retrieval. The embryo(s) will then be implanted between two to five days afterwards. Not all patients are successful on their first IVF attempt; in fact, its not uncommon for patients to go through multiple IVF cycles before finally becoming pregnant.

Once a pregnancy is confirmed, you will see your fertility doctor for continued blood testing, and eventually an ultrasound to confirm that the pregnancy is progressing smoothly. Once the fetus heartbeat has been verified, you will then be referred to an obstetrician for the rest of your pregnancy.