Undergoing IVF is a hopeful yet physically and emotionally demanding journey. Although generally safe, it involves hormonal medications and minor procedures that may cause temporary side effects.
Understanding what is normal and when to seek medical care reduces anxiety. At Shivam IVF, widely recognised as the best IVF clinic in Delhi, Dr Bhavana Mittal ensures close monitoring, patient education, and personalised support throughout the fertility journey.
During IVF, hormone injections are given to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
Normal Symptoms
Mild abdominal bloating or fullness
Breast tenderness
Mild mood swings or irritability
Headache or mild nausea
Mild pelvic discomfort
Redness or slight swelling at the injection site
These symptoms are common and usually temporary.
Not Normal (Seek Medical Help Immediately)
Severe abdominal pain
Rapid weight gain (1–2 kg within 1–2 days)
Persistent vomiting
Difficulty breathing
Severe swelling
These may indicate Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) and require immediate medical attention.
OHSS happens when the ovaries overreact to fertility medications.
Mild OHSS (Common and Manageable)
Mild abdominal pain
Bloating
Mild nausea
Usually improves with rest and proper hydration.
Severe OHSS (Medical Emergency)
Severe abdominal pain
Shortness of breath
Reduced urination
Severe bloating
Signs of blood clots
Immediate treatment is necessary.
Egg retrieval is a minor procedure done under sedation.
Normal
Mild cramping
Light spotting
Temporary fatigue
These usually improve within 1–3 days.
Not Normal
Heavy bleeding
Fever (above 100.4°F / 38°C)
Severe pelvic pain
Foul-smelling discharge
These may indicate infection or complications.
Embryo transfer is quick and usually painless.
Normal
Mild cramping
Light spotting
Breast tenderness
Fatigue
Some women may experience early pregnancy-like symptoms due to hormone medications.
Not Normal
Heavy bleeding
Severe abdominal pain
Sudden intense cramps
Medical consultation is required.
Multiple Pregnancy
Happens if more than one embryo is transferred
May increase the risk of premature birth and complications
Ectopic Pregnancy (Rare)
Warning Signs:
Sharp one-sided abdominal pain
Heavy bleeding
Dizziness or fainting
Requires immediate medical care.
Blood Clot Risk (Rare)
Warning Signs:
Leg swelling
Sudden chest pain
Shortness of breath
Seek urgent treatment.
Take medications exactly as prescribed
Stay well hydrated
Eat a balanced, high-protein diet
Avoid heavy exercise
Report unusual symptoms immediately
Severe abdominal pain
Heavy bleeding
Fever
Severe bloating
Breathing difficulty
Sudden weight gain
Persistent vomiting