Is Leg Pain After Embryo Transfer Normal?

Starting a fertility treatment process to become a parent can be both thrilling and intimidating. One of the unexpected symptoms that many women undergoing IVF or ICSI face is leg pain after embryo transfer. 

They do wonder, “Is leg pain common after embryo transfer?” or “Is it a sign of something serious?”

Well, if you are facing the same issue, then do not worry, you are not alone! Your concerns are completely valid, and support is available for the same. This blog will help you understand the causes, symptoms, and risk factors associated with after-embryo-transfer leg pain. So, let’s begin!

Causes of Leg Pain After Embryo Transfer

Understanding the causes behind pain in the legs after embryo transfer is crucial in finding effective solutions. Let’s check the most common reasons:

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

OHSS is a condition in which the fertility medications used during IVF treatment cause a significant reaction in the ovaries. This may result in ovarian inflammation and oedema, which may occasionally produce referred discomfort in the legs. Leg pain during the embryo transfer may be more common in people with a history of OHSS or intolerance to the IVF drugs.

Implantation Process

If the fertilised embryo attaches to the uterine lining naturally, then it can contribute to leg pain. This is due to contractions and irritation in the uterine area, which may be felt as discomfort or aches in the legs.

Hormonal Imbalance

Significant hormonal changes, such as variations in progesterone and estrogen, as well as other reproductive hormones, occur during the IVF process. Inflammation, tense muscles, and even leg discomfort might result from these hormone abnormalities.

Blood Clot Risk

IVF treatments can cause the condition known as Deep Vein Thrombosis, which increases the risk of blood clots. It can be one of the causes for after embryo transfer leg pain, swelling, or discomfort. In such cases, it is essential to inform your doctor and receive prompt medical attention.

Physical and Emotional Stress

The entire IVF process, including the embryo transfer process, can be emotionally and physically draining. Fatigue, tense muscles, and occasionally leg discomfort might result from the body’s stress and pressure.

Leg Pain After Embryo Transfer is a Symptom of Pregnancy?

Leg pain after embryo transfer is not a reliable symptom of pregnancy. It occurs for several reasons, as mentioned above. Early pregnancy symptoms vary widely, and pain in the legs after embryo transfer cannot alone confirm pregnancy. A blood test (beta-hCG) is the only accurate way to determine.

Is Leg Pain After Embryo Transfer Normal?

Yes, leg pain after embryo transfer is usually normal. Leg heaviness or soreness may be caused by hormonal changes, progesterone shots, modest pelvic discomfort, or extended rest. Usually, it’s transient and doesn’t indicate a problem. However, you should always visit your reproductive doctor if the discomfort is severe, one-sided, or accompanied by swelling.

Risk Factor of Leg Pain After Embryo Transfer

The likelihood of experiencing leg pain during embryo transfer can be increased by several risk factors. Below is a list of a few of them.

• You have previously had pelvic infections.
• Endometriosis
• There were complications during the transplant of your embryo.
• You are overweight or obese.
• You’ve undergone numerous IVF treatments or prior surgeries.

Side Effects of Leg Pain After Embryo Transfer

There are some side effects of leg pain after embryo transfer.

• Leg discomfort or heaviness
• Mild oedema, particularly during extended periods of relaxation or sitting
• Stiffness in the muscles as a result of decreased activity after transfer
• Soreness in the lower back that could spread to the legs
• Having trouble standing or walking for long periods of time
• Sleep disruptions brought on by chronic pain
• Exhaustion brought on by restricted movement or intermittent sleep
• Temporary decrease in daily activity levels
• Increased stress or anxiety, frequently as a result of worrying about how IVF would turn out
• Periodic tingling or numbness brought on by nerve pressure or progesterone injections

Treatment for Leg Pain After Embryo Transfer

Addressing leg pain after embryo transfer is a common concern for individuals undergoing assisted reproductive technology. Managing lеg pain aftеr еmbryo transfеr involvеs a combination of lifеstylе adjustmеnts and targеtеd trеatmеnts.

Hydration & Gentle Movement

One must stay well-hydrated to maintain overall bodily comfort. It helps with your circulation and minimise muscle tension. You can add brisk walking to your daily routine to promote blood flow. A little bit of movement will ease any stiffness or discomfort in the legs.

Ovеr-thе-Countеr Pain Rеliеf

If you experience mild to moderate leg pain, your doctor may recommend taking pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, do not take any medication before consulting your healthcare professional, as it might result in complications in the future.

Hеat or Cold Thеrapy

Applying heat or cold to the affected area can bring relief in some cases. While a cold compress may help alleviate pain, a warm compress or heating pad can help relax tense muscles. Alternate between the two based on comfort and personal preference.

Elеvating Lеgs

Elevating the legs when resting can help reduce swelling and improve circulation. You can incorporate this strategy into your daily routines, contributing to overall comfort.

How to Prevent Leg Pain After Embryo Transfer

Here are some tips that you can follow to prevent leg pain after embryo transfer:

• Every few hours, take a brief walk to promote blood flow and prevent stiffness.
• Avoid lying down for extended periods; switch positions frequently throughout the day.
• When you are at rest, place a soft pillow under your knees to ease the strain on your legs and lower back.
• Maintain a healthy fluid balance to reduce leg heaviness and muscle cramping.
• Incorporate your doctor’s suggested modest leg workouts or stretches.
• To avoid cramping in your muscles, eat a balanced diet rich in electrolytes (potassium, magnesium).
• To reduce leg strain, wear supportive and comfortable shoes.
• Avoid crossing your legs for extended periods.
• Because hormonal fluctuations can affect discomfort, carefully follow all prescription directions.

Lower Back Pain After Embryo Transfer

Lower back pain is also common after embryo transfer. There can be many reasons behind the same; however, hormonal changes, stress, prolonged rest, pelvic discomfort, and IVF medications can be some of the many reasons. In these cases, notice symptoms like leg heaviness, mild cramps, bloating, and fatigue. When the pain is mild, intermittent, and improves with rest or gentle movement. If pain is severe, persistent, one-sided, or accompanied by fever, bleeding, or swelling. Just like leg pain, back pain can also find relief through light walking, warm compresses, gentle stretches, proper hydration, and good sleep posture. If symptoms worsen or raise concern, contact your fertility specialist.

Conclusion

Couples who are trying to conceive with the help of fertility treatments like IVF might feel the side effects and symptoms, like leg or back pain, to be overwhelming. However, this discomfort can be temporary if it is properly addressed. Simple tips can be effective, such as staying hydrated, engaging in gentle movement, and using over-the-counter pain relief. Open communication with healthcare professionals is crucial for personalised guidance.

Get in touch with our specialists at Birla Fertility & IVF if you are experiencing infertility and need experienced support. Our experienced team can offer the customised care and insights required for a more seamless transition to parenthood.

FAQ’s

How long does leg pain after embryo transfer lasts?

Leg pain and discomfort lasts only for a few hours after embryo transfer. It improves with movement and hydration. In cases where the symptoms persist beyond this period, you must consult your fertility specialist to avoid any complications.

Can leg pain after embryo transfer sign of miscarriage?

Leg pain alone is not a sign of miscarriage. Miscarriage symptoms typically include heavy bleeding and strong abdominal cramps, not isolated leg pain.

What are the exercises that help to get rid of leg pain?

Gentle stretches, ankle rotations, light walking, and calf raises can help improve blood flow and reduce discomfort. Choose only mild, doctor-approved movements after embryo transfer.