Rules after an IVF failure: particularities and possible changes

When do periods appear after a failed IVF?

Are they different from normal periods? How does IVF failure affect subsequent menstrual cycles? These questions concern women undergoing infertility treatment using assisted reproductive techniques. Understanding the processes that occur in the body can help maintain calm and confidence in the continuation of treatment.

When should I expect my period?

Unfortunately, not all IVF cycles end in a successful pregnancy. The reasons for failure may be related to genetic disorders, rare pathologies, and other factors that are not always predictable.

Fourteen days after the embryo transfer, a vaginal ultrasound and a human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) blood test are performed. If the results do not confirm pregnancy, hormonal support with progesterone-based preparations is stopped. The period usually appears within 10 days after stopping the medications. It most often occurs on the 2nd or 3rd day but can sometimes be delayed by 4 to 7 days. If the period does not occur within two weeks, this may indicate the presence of disorders in the body that require a medical consultation.

What do periods look like after a failed IVF?

Periods after a failed IVF differ from the usual cycle, as if the embryo implantation has not occurred, the endometrium begins to shed under the influence of hormonal changes. This process is usually accompanied by

• Dark, bloody uterine discharge at the beginning;
• Heavy bleeding with clots associated with thickening of the endometrium;
• A gradual transition to normal menstrual bleeding after 2 or 3 days.

These changes are primarily due to the intake of progesterone, which thickens the uterine lining. After stopping progesterone, the endometrium loses its support, leading to irregular shedding and the bleeding that follows.

The hormone therapy used in an IVF protocol also affects menstrual patterns:

• Periods may be more painful due to increased uterine contractions.
• The duration of bleeding may increase up to 8 days due to a denser endometrium.

Why are periods delayed after a failed IVF?

If your period does not arrive on time, this is not normal and requires medical advice. Possible causes of delay include:

• Significant thinning of the endometrial layer;
• Obstruction of the cervical canal;
• Exacerbation of chronic inflammatory diseases of the pelvic region;
• Significant emotional stress after a failed pregnancy attempt;
• Hormonal imbalance requiring medical monitoring.

When should I consult a doctor?

It is advisable for women whose IVF attempt has failed to consult a doctor in the following cases:

• Periods are absent for more than 2 weeks after stopping progesterone;
• Pain is severe and cannot be relieved by painkillers;
• Bleeding is excessively heavy;
• Other alarming symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, or fever.

Prompt medical assistance will help rule out possible complications and accelerate the body's recovery.

Specialist advice

You can discuss the IVF program, possible sensations during treatment, and chances of success with the specialist doctor at the Natuvitro clinic. An individualized approach and careful medical monitoring help minimize risks and increase the likelihood of successful conception in the future.