Cramping post IVF

I had my transfer on 11/25 - one blastocyst and one embryo - and began having period-like cramps this Tuesday and they have continued every day since (today is 9 days since the transfer).  They have been moderate cramps, on and off throughout the day.  Last night I woke up with a particularly bad cramp.  It all feels like I do when I start my period.  I also started having bloating a few days ago as well as constipation.  I am trying not to lose hope, is any of this normal and actually lead to a postive test?  My blood test is on Monday, but I am anxious.  This has been the longest 12 days of my life.

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
I am answering on Wednesday, so I hope that you've already had a positive test by now!
Many people post about cramps after IVF, so I don't interpret it either way--positive or negative.  The bloating and constipation could be contributing to the cramps as well.
I think every body has a struggle with the 10-14 days between transfer and test -- there is just no way to know sooner!
Good luck!
Dr B