IVF Pregnancy Timeline: Transfer to Due Date
A complete guide to the IVF pregnancy timeline — from embryo transfer and beta hCG testing through first trimester milestones and graduation to regular OB care.
Medically reviewed by
MBBS, MD — Gynecologist & Obstetrician
Last reviewed:
Feb 2026
+261 days
Day 5 Transfer → EDD
+263 days
Day 3 Transfer → EDD
+260 days
Day 6 Transfer → EDD
9–14 days post-transfer
Beta hCG test
IVF Due Date Formula
Because the embryo’s age at transfer is known precisely, IVF due dates are calculated as:
EDD = Transfer Date + (266 − Embryo Age in Days)
Day 5 blastocyst: 266 − 5 = 261 days → EDD = Transfer + 261
Day 3 embryo: 266 − 3 = 263 days → EDD = Transfer + 263
Day 6 blastocyst: 266 − 6 = 260 days → EDD = Transfer + 260
Day 5 blastocyst: 266 − 5 = 261 days → EDD = Transfer + 261
Day 3 embryo: 266 − 3 = 263 days → EDD = Transfer + 263
Day 6 blastocyst: 266 − 6 = 260 days → EDD = Transfer + 260
This formula is based on the 266-day fetal age (from conception to term). The embryo’s lab age substitutes for the unknown time between fertilization and the imaginary start point of Naegele’s Rule.
Calculate IVF Due Date →Timeline: Day by Day
1
Day 0: Egg Retrieval
Eggs are retrieved from the ovaries under sedation. On the same day, sperm is collected and fertilization occurs in the laboratory.
2
Days 1–3: Fertilization Check
Fertilization is confirmed. Embryos are monitored for cell division. Day 3 embryos (cleavage stage, ~8 cells) may be transferred on this day for some protocols.
3
Day 5–6: Blastocyst Transfer
Most modern IVF protocols use Day 5 or Day 6 blastocyst transfers. The embryo has developed into a hollow ball of ~100–200 cells. Remaining embryos may be frozen (vitrified) for future FET cycles.
4
Days 6–10: Implantation Window
The blastocyst hatches from its shell and implants into the uterine lining. This typically occurs 6–10 days after fertilization. HCG begins to be produced.
5
9–14 Days Post-Transfer: Beta hCG Test
Your clinic schedules a blood pregnancy test (beta hCG). A positive result confirms implantation. Serial hCG tests (repeat 48 hours later) confirm that levels are rising appropriately.
6
6 Weeks: First Ultrasound
At approximately 6 weeks of gestational age (about 3 weeks after Day 5 transfer), a gestational sac and possibly a yolk sac are visible. A fetal heartbeat may be detectable by transvaginal ultrasound.
7
7–8 Weeks: Heartbeat Confirmation
A fetal heartbeat of ~100–160 bpm is confirmed. The embryo measures approximately 10–16mm (CRL). This is a major reassurance milestone — miscarriage risk drops significantly after heartbeat confirmation.
8
8–10 Weeks: Graduation to OB
Most IVF clinics transfer care to an OB-GYN or midwife at this point. Your IVF medications (progesterone, estrogen if FET) are typically weaned off around 10–12 weeks as the placenta takes over hormone production.
9
11–14 Weeks: First Trimester Screening
Nuchal translucency ultrasound + blood tests (PAPP-A, beta-hCG). Optional NIPT (cell-free DNA) for chromosomal screening. This is standard care for all pregnancies — IVF and natural conception alike.
10
18–22 Weeks: Anatomy Scan
Detailed anatomy ultrasound checks all fetal organs and structures. For IVF pregnancies, this is a milestone that confirms ongoing development into the second trimester.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions answered by our medical team