6.9 Post-Transfer Monitoring & Pregnancy Confirmation

After the embryo transfer, ongoing medical monitoring is essential to determine whether implantation has occurred and to track the early progress of pregnancy. At GSHC Surrogacy, we ensure that every surrogate mother receives proper medical supervision and support throughout this critical stage of the surrogacy journey.

1. Beta hCG Testing: The First Signs of Pregnancy

✔ First Beta hCG Test (9–12 Days Post-Transfer)

This blood test measures human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the hormone produced by the implanted embryo.
A positive result indicates that implantation has likely occurred.
The fertility clinic will provide specific instructions on testing.

✔ Second Beta hCG Test (48 Hours Later)

This follow-up test confirms that hCG levels are rising appropriately, which suggests a healthy developing pregnancy.
A doubling hCG level is a strong indicator of a viable pregnancy.
If levels do not increase as expected, additional testing or monitoring may be needed.

💡 If hCG levels are low or not rising properly, further evaluations may be required to determine the next steps.

2. Early Pregnancy Ultrasound: Verifying Fetal Development

✔ Heartbeat Confirmation Ultrasound (6–7 Weeks Gestation)

At 6–7 weeks of pregnancy, a transvaginal ultrasound is performed to confirm:✔ The presence of a gestational sac.✔ The development of the embryo.✔ A detectable fetal heartbeat.
This milestone provides the first clear confirmation of a viable pregnancy.

💡 If no heartbeat is detected at this stage, follow-up ultrasounds and medical evaluations may be necessary.

3. Home Pregnancy Tests: Should You Take One?

Some surrogate mothers choose to take a home pregnancy test before their scheduled beta hCG blood test, while others prefer to wait for clinical confirmation. Both choices are completely valid.

💡 Important Reminder: A home pregnancy test is not the final result. Whether it shows positive or negative, the hCG blood test remains the most accurate way to confirm pregnancy.

What to Keep in Mind:

✔ A positive home test does not guarantee a confirmed pregnancy—hCG levels must be monitored over time.

✔ A negative home test does not mean the transfer was unsuccessful—it may be too early to detect hCG in urine.

✔ Do not get overly excited or discouraged based on a home test—the final confirmation comes from medical monitoring.

At GSHC Surrogacy, we remind surrogate mothers that patience is key during this waiting period. Regardless of whether you take a home test or not, the beta hCG test is the official confirmation of pregnancy.

4. Medication Continuation: Follow Your Clinic’s Instructions

One of the most critical steps after the embryo transfer is continuing prescribed medications. These medications, including progesterone and estrogen, are essential for supporting the uterine lining and maintaining early pregnancy.

💡 Do not stop taking your medications until your clinic specifically instructs you to do so.

Stopping medications too early could lead to a decline in hormone levels, which may negatively affect the pregnancy. Even if you receive a positive home pregnancy test or beta hCG result, you must continue medications exactly as prescribed until your doctor provides further guidance.

5. Additional Monitoring & Medical Support

At GSHC Surrogacy, we coordinate with fertility specialists to ensure that the surrogate mother receives the necessary medical care, including:

✔ Ongoing bloodwork and hormone monitoring to support a stable pregnancy.

✔ Adjustments to medication protocols if needed, particularly for progesterone and estrogen support.

✔ Guidance on early pregnancy symptoms, self-care, and next steps.

If there are any concerns about hCG levels or ultrasound results, additional testing and clinical guidance will be provided.

Final Thoughts from GSHC Surrogacy

The post-transfer phase is a crucial period in the surrogacy journey, as it determines whether the embryo has successfully implanted and continues to develop. While some surrogate mothers may choose to take a home pregnancy test, it is essential to remember that the beta hCG test is the only official confirmation of pregnancy.

Additionally, do not stop taking any prescribed medications until your clinic gives you direct instructions. Proper medication support plays a critical role in maintaining a successful pregnancy.

At GSHC Surrogacy, we are committed to providing comprehensive support every step of the way, ensuring that every surrogate mother receives the highest standard of care.

💙 A successful pregnancy begins with careful monitoring, proper medication adherence, and expert guidance. GSHC Surrogacy is here to support you at every stage.

Start Your Surrogacy Journey Today!

📩 Contact us now to learn more about becoming a surrogate mother and making a life-changing difference for intended parents!
📞 Call: 310-953-0137
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