Is IVF treatment painful?

IVF involves several steps, and the level of discomfort or pain can vary from person to person. Here's a general overview of potential sources of discomfort or pain during different stages of IVF:

• Ovulation Induction: Hormonal medications used to stimulate egg production can sometimes cause mild side effects, such as bloating, mood swings, and breast tenderness.
• Egg Retrieval: Typically performed under sedation or anaesthesia, so the patient should not experience pain during the procedure itself. After the procedure, some women may experience mild cramping, bloating, or discomfort, but this usually resolves within a few days.
• Embryo Transfer: The embryo transfer is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure, and generally not associated with significant pain. Some women may experience mild discomfort or cramping during or after the transfer.
• Luteal Phase Support: Hormonal medications, such as progesterone, are commonly used to support the uterine lining during the luteal phase. While some women may find the injections mildly uncomfortable, others may not experience significant discomfort.