Implantation bleeding or start of period?

[Hshed]

Me and my wife (same sex couple) have recently undergone our first round of IVF treatment. My wife had a day 3 embryo transfer, graded best for cells (9) and symmetry on transfer day.

My wife had a few symptoms within the two week wait, but all that could be linked to her progesterone pessaries or pregnancy.

On day 10 post transfer, she experienced some spotting with cramps and backache. We spoke to our clinic who suggested it could be a sign of implantation or irritation of the cervix but not to be concerned. This continued and become light bleeding on day 11 and 12. The clinic again told us not to worry. My wife says the bleeding, colour or texture nor the tummy ache was similar to her usual period. This also all started 6 days before her period was due, and she is usually like clockwork.

We have had a BFN (today) on day 13 (OTD) but no signs of anymore spotting.

We have lost all hope, and feel it is over. Planning to speak to our clinic tomorrow for advice. I just can’t help but wonder if there is a chance of late implantation? Anyone’s story who has experienced similar would be really appreciated, regardless of the outcome we’d just like to understand what the bleeding is likely to have been!

Thanks all.

[WillowPark]

Hi Hshed, when I've had spotting or bleeding about that time, it usually means my period is there and ready to start, but being held off artificially by the progesterone pessaries/injections. On my first round I had a full bleed about then. On subsequent rounds I have taken more progesterone and the most I have had is some light spotting for 24 hours or so, but always at the same time, and sometimes with backache. Unfortunately I think it is quite common in a failed round. She will probably have the remainder of the bleed a couple of days after stopping the medication. Hope you are both doing OK tonight x

[Hshed in reply to WillowPark]

Hi WillowPark, thanks so much for your reply and honesty. It’s so much to take in and understand, and we really appreciate you sharing your experience with us. I’m sorry you’ve experienced this a few times, really hope it all works out for you x

[WillowPark in reply to Hshed]

The process is overwhelming and it is so brutal when it doesn't work. I'm sorry you are dealing with this tonight. I have found the honest advice and experience of so many ladies on here helpful. Sometimes you just want to know what could be happening, so you can prepare for what might happen next. Other times it is just helpful to know you are not alone ❤️

[Brie86]

hey Hshed, my first round was the same, I had really light light bleed mainly just when I ‘wiped’. My test was negative and my period came around 4 days after I stopped the pessaries.

I’m so sorry if this hasn’t worked this time for you. Don’t give up hope, do you think you will do a second round? Once I knew I was doing a second round I got motivated and started to feel better and then researching supplements and diets etc which kept me positive.

It’s a really hard journey but sending you love and you have come to the right place here, everyone has great advice and there is so much support. If you read some of my posts you will see we all have been to some dark places but the support was amazing.

Good luck 🤞🏻 xxxx

[Toniik]

Hi Hshed, I have similar experience in my second round with spotting which became light bleeding around day 11 to 12. I remember it quite clearly because I supposed to take the blood test on day 14 and thought it was all over. But I then found out it's a positive HCG test. My doctor said it might be because 1. I have low progesterone and 2. he prescribed me the blood thinner due to my prior chemical pregnancy. I'd recommend asking for a blood test just to confirm! All the best!!

[Hshed]

Thanks all, the clinic have advised it is a loss this time. Just awful timing with OTD on Mother’s Day yesterday, and today is our wedding anniversary.

Luckily we’ve come away for a few days with our beautiful dog, so hopefully we can process this together.

Thank you for all of your help and advice ❤️