Most patients describe IVF as uncomfortable rather than painful. The daily injections use very fine needles, egg collection is done under sedation so you won't feel it, and embryo transfer is similar to a Pap smear. The emotional journey is often more challenging than the physical aspects.
What Each Stage Feels Like
Hormone Injections (10-14 days)
Daily injections are given just under the skin of your abdomen using very fine needles. Most women say they were nervous at first but found the injections much easier than expected.
Tips for comfort:
- • Apply an ice cube to the injection site for 30 seconds beforehand
- • Pinch the skin gently to reduce the sensation
- • Rotate injection sites to avoid tenderness
- • Let the medication reach room temperature first
Blood Tests & Ultrasounds
During stimulation, you'll have regular blood tests and transvaginal ultrasounds to monitor follicle growth. Blood tests involve a standard needle prick. Ultrasounds involve a slim probe inserted vaginally, similar to a Pap smear, with mild pressure but not typically painful. You may feel bloated and full as your ovaries respond to stimulation.
Egg Collection (Retrieval)
This is the part most people worry about, but you'll be under sedation or light anaesthesia, you won't feel the procedure itself. A thin needle passes through the vaginal wall to collect eggs from each follicle, guided by ultrasound.
Afterwards: You may experience cramping (like period pain), bloating, and mild spotting. These symptoms usually resolve within 1-2 days. Paracetamol is usually sufficient for discomfort.
When to contact your clinic:
- • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
- • Heavy bleeding
- • Fever or feeling very unwell
- • Severe bloating or difficulty breathing
Embryo Transfer
This is usually the easiest part physically. No anaesthesia is needed. A thin, soft catheter is guided through the cervix to place the embryo in your uterus. The procedure takes just 5-10 minutes and feels similar to a Pap smear. Most women describe feeling mild pressure but no significant pain. You can return to normal activities the same day.
The Two-Week Wait
Physically, there's little to report during this period, you'll continue progesterone support (pessaries or injections). Emotionally, this is often described as the hardest part of the entire IVF process. The uncertainty and anticipation can be very stressful. Try to stay occupied, lean on your support network, and remember that it's completely normal to feel anxious.
The Emotional Side
Many patients say the emotional aspects of IVF are harder than the physical. Hormonal medications can affect your mood, and the uncertainty of each step creates natural anxiety. This is entirely normal and not a sign of weakness.
Dr Priya and her team understand this and can recommend counselling services and support. Don't hesitate to reach out to your clinic about how you're feeling, emotional wellbeing is an important part of your care.
Related Pages
All content on this page has been reviewed and verified by Dr Priya Sivadas for factual accuracy and clinical correctness.
- FRANZCOG — Fellow of RANZCOG
- CREI — Certified Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility
- MMed (Rep Med) — Master of Reproductive Medicine, UNSW
- MBBS — Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery
- DGO — Diploma in Gynaecology & Obstetrics
- MD — Doctor of Medicine (O&G)
Have Questions About IVF?
Dr Priya Sivadas can walk you through the process and address any concerns you have.
Make an Appointment