Clinic Day: What to Expect at Embryo Transfer in Canada

Embryo transfer day is one of the most exciting milestones in the IVF and surrogacy journey. After weeks of medications, monitoring appointments, and careful preparation, the moment finally arrives when the embryo is placed into the uterus.

Although many intended parents and surrogates feel nervous, the procedure itself is usually quick, minimally invasive, and does not require surgery or general anesthesia. Knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety and make the experience more comfortable.

This guide explains exactly what typically happens on embryo transfer day in Canada.

What Is an Embryo Transfer?

An embryo transfer is the final stage of the IVF process, during which a fertility specialist carefully places one or more embryos into the uterus using a thin, flexible catheter.

The goal is for the embryo to implant into the uterine lining and develop into a healthy pregnancy.

Embryo transfers may involve:

• Fresh embryos
• Frozen embryo transfers (FET)
• Donor embryos
• Embryos created using intended parents’ eggs and sperm

The specific treatment plan depends on your fertility specialist’s recommendations.

Before You Arrive at the Clinic

Your fertility clinic will provide detailed instructions before your appointment.

These commonly include:

• Continue prescribed medications exactly as directed
• Arrive with a comfortably full bladder (if instructed)
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Avoid perfumes, scented lotions, or strong fragrances, as many embryology labs request fragrance-free environments
• Bring identification and any required paperwork

Many clinics also encourage intended parents or partners to attend for emotional support.

Checking In

Once you arrive, you’ll typically:

• Complete any remaining paperwork
• Confirm your identity
• Review your treatment plan
• Meet with your fertility team
• Confirm the embryo scheduled for transfer

Patient identification is verified multiple times throughout the process to ensure the correct embryo is transferred.

Meeting the Embryologist

Before the procedure, the embryologist may discuss:

• Embryo quality
• Development stage (often Day 5 blastocyst)
• Number of embryos being transferred
• Whether additional embryos remain frozen

This is often an emotional moment for intended parents who have waited months—or even years—for this step.

The Embryo Transfer Procedure

The transfer itself usually takes only a few minutes.

During the procedure:

1. You’ll lie comfortably on an examination table.
2. A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina.
3. The cervix is cleaned.
4. Using ultrasound guidance, the physician passes a very thin catheter through the cervix.
5. The embryologist loads the embryo into the catheter.
6. The embryo is carefully placed inside the uterus.

The physician then removes the catheter, and the embryologist checks it under a microscope to confirm the embryo has been successfully released.

Does the Procedure Hurt?

For most patients, embryo transfer is not painful.

Many describe it as feeling similar to:

• A routine pelvic examination
• A Pap test
• Mild menstrual cramping

General anesthesia is usually not required.

Some women experience mild pressure or slight discomfort from the speculum or full bladder, but significant pain is uncommon.

What Happens After the Transfer?

After the procedure, you’ll usually rest for a short period before going home.

Your fertility clinic will provide instructions regarding:

• Continuing progesterone or other medications
• Physical activity
• Hydration
• Diet
• Follow-up appointments

Most patients are able to resume light daily activities the same day. Strict bed rest is generally not recommended unless specifically advised by your physician.

Normal Symptoms After Embryo Transfer

It’s completely normal to experience mild symptoms, including:

• Light cramping
• Mild bloating
• Small amount of spotting
• Breast tenderness
• Fatigue

Many of these symptoms are related to fertility medications rather than implantation itself.

Some patients experience no symptoms at all and still have successful pregnancies.

Activities to Avoid

Your clinic may recommend temporarily avoiding:

• Heavy lifting
• High-impact exercise
• Hot tubs and saunas
• Smoking
• Alcohol
• Recreational drugs

Continue taking all prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise.

The Two-Week Wait

After embryo transfer comes what’s commonly called the two-week wait.

This period can feel emotionally challenging because there are usually no reliable physical signs that indicate whether implantation has occurred.

Try to:

• Stay hydrated
• Eat nutritious foods
• Sleep well
• Continue medications
• Avoid excessive home pregnancy testing

Most fertility clinics schedule a blood pregnancy test approximately 9 to 14 days after the embryo transfer to accurately determine whether implantation has occurred.

Emotional Support Matters

Embryo transfer day often brings a mix of emotions, including:

• Hope
• Excitement
• Anxiety
• Relief
• Anticipation

Whether you’re an intended parent or a surrogate, these feelings are completely normal. Lean on your partner, family, friends, or your fertility care team for support throughout the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long does embryo transfer take?

Ans. The actual transfer usually takes only 10–15 minutes, although you may spend about an hour or more at the clinic for preparation and recovery.

Q. Will I be asleep during the procedure?

Ans. No. Most embryo transfers are performed without anesthesia.

Q. Can I walk after embryo transfer?

Ans. Yes. Most patients can walk normally and return home shortly after the procedure.

Q. Should I stay in bed after embryo transfer?

Ans. Current medical guidance generally does not recommend prolonged bed rest. Light daily activities are usually considered safe unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Q. When will I know if the transfer worked?

Ans. Your fertility clinic will usually schedule a blood pregnancy test about 9–14 days after the transfer.

Final Thoughts

Embryo transfer day marks one of the most meaningful moments in the fertility journey. While it’s natural to feel nervous, the procedure is typically quick, gentle, and carefully performed by an experienced fertility team. Understanding each step—from checking in at the clinic to the two-week wait—can help you feel more prepared and confident.

Whether you’re an intended parent or a surrogate in Canada, following your clinic’s instructions, maintaining open communication with your care team, and taking care of your physical and emotional well-being can help make this important milestone as smooth as possible.

Ready to take the next step? Call Surrogacy4All at (212) 661-7673 or email info@surrogacy4all.com to book your consultation.