Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team — December 2025
It can be so difficult to go through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and find that your embryo didn’t implant successfully. This happens to many people, and you are not going through this alone.
As you process the outcome of your cycle, it’s often helpful to seek comfort and understanding from others who’ve been through this experience. You always have support from your healthcare team and your Progyny Care Advocate as you think about what may be next for you.
Here are a few options you may wish to think about. It’s important to remember that there is no single timeline or pathway here — only what feels right for you. It’s OK to take the time you need.
Diagnostic testing
Diagnostic testing may help you and your healthcare team understand possible reasons the embryo didn’t implant.
Sometimes tests that were done before treatment may be repeated, or you may try new ones. Be sure to speak with your doctor about what they recommend for you. It’s always OK to ask any questions you have.
Tests may include:
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): An x-ray that uses contrast dye to see blockages in the fallopian tubes and look for signs of uterine fibroids, polyps, scar tissue, or other problems in the uterus
- Sonohysterogram (SIS): A transvaginal ultrasound that is done while your uterus is filled with saline solution, to better see the inside of the uterus
- Hysteroscopy: A visual exam of the inside of the uterus using a camera attached to a small, lighted tube that is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus
- Other tests: Based on your personal situation and health history, your team may recommend other tests for you
Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A)
It’s common for embryos created in an IVF cycle to have an unexpected number of chromosomes (called aneuploidy). Transferring an embryo with aneuploidy may result in an embryo that doesn’t implant, a miscarriage, or a baby born with a medical problem.
With PGT-A, genetic testing is done on the embryo before embryo transfer. This helps the team select an embryo with a higher chance of successful implantation and a higher chance of a healthy baby.
PGT-A may be helpful if you choose another IVF cycle or have remaining embryos that have not undergone PGT-A.
Lean on your support system
Everyone’s journey is different, and people need different amounts of time and support to think through what’s next for them.
Find support on a personal level
Sharing your story and hearing from other people who’ve been through fertility treatment can be validating and bring a sense of connection. Ask your fertility clinic if they recommend any support groups, or search for organizations that offer in-person or online support.
Be sure to have discussions with your partner if you have one, both about how you’re feeling and what feels right moving forward. These topics can be difficult, so it’s good to know that a professional therapist can help you share feelings and make decisions together. Here’s help finding a therapist.
Turn to your fertility team for guidance
When you’re ready, you (and your partner) can discuss possible next steps with your healthcare team. Your Progyny Care Advocate is here to help you prepare for these conversations.
Gather as much information as you need and be open about your hopes, questions, and concerns. You may wish to talk about:
- How many IVF cycles you wish to try
- Other options that may be available (such as adjusting your medicine plan, or using donor eggs, embryos, or surrogacy)
- Other paths to parenthood
Prioritize your own well-being
Throughout it all, be good to yourself. Think about what you would say or do for a close friend going through a similar experience and give yourself the same grace. Set aside time each day to:
- Use a relaxation technique like meditation or deep breathing
- Get moving with light physical activity that you enjoy
- Do a hobby that brings you comfort and takes your mind off things
Your Progyny Care Advocate is always here for support, resources, and guidance — or just a listening ear.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.