In IVF treatment, bleeding during the early stages of pregnancy, especially within 12 days after embryo transfer, which may appear brown or red, can cause concern for patients. Spotting within the first 1–2 days immediately after transfer is considered normal.
However, spotting that occurs close to the time of the pregnancy test often leads patients to believe that the embryo has not implanted. In fact, this bleeding may sometimes be implantation bleeding. Therefore, it is important not to stop medications and to stay in contact with the physician. Bleeding that occurs after a positive pregnancy test must be evaluated. Bleeding around the gestational sac, an empty pregnancy (blighted ovum), or an ectopic pregnancy may cause such symptoms.
In some cases, bleeding may occur even in a healthy pregnancy without a serious underlying cause and may require hormonal support. Therefore, after evaluation by the physician, progesterone-containing injections and other medications may be necessary. It is essential to consult the physician and not neglect such situations.
