Elevated white blood cell count after successful test-tube embryo transfer
Sep 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
In general, IVF transfer refers to embryo transfer. An increase in white blood cells after successful embryo transfer may be caused by normal immune response, medication effects, viral cold, endometritis, or urinary tract infection. Patients experiencing other discomforts should seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, it could also be due to bacterial pneumonia, acute appendicitis, or other causes.
Generally speaking, IVF transfer refers to embryo transfer. After successful embryo transfer, an increase in white blood cells may be caused by normal defense reactions, medication effects, viral colds, endometritis, urinary tract infections, etc. Patients experiencing other discomforts should seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Normal Defense Reaction
After embryo transfer, if the embryo successfully implants, the pregnant woman's white blood cell count may slightly increase. This is usually due to a normal immune defense response and is considered a normal physiological phenomenon that generally does not require excessive concern. The expectant mother can drink more warm water, get adequate rest, and avoid overexertion.
2. Medication Factors
After embryo transfer, certain medications accidentally taken by women—such as corticosteroids, erythromycin, cephalosporins, or catecholamines—may cause elevated white blood cell counts. In such cases, patients are advised to consult their doctor promptly to determine whether medication adjustment or discontinuation is necessary to avoid adverse effects on embryonic development.
3. Viral Cold
If a pregnant woman develops a viral infection causing a cold after embryo transfer, symptoms such as fever, sore throat, sneezing, and runny nose commonly occur, which may also lead to increased white blood cell levels. Patients can take antiviral medications such as Shuanghuanglian oral liquid or Isatis root granules under medical guidance.
4. Endometritis
If endometrial infection occurs after embryo transfer, patients typically experience persistent lower abdominal pain. The inflammation may stimulate the body and subsequently elevate white blood cell counts. In such cases, patients may be treated under a doctor’s supervision with medications like cefixime capsules or amoxicillin capsules.
5. Urinary Tract Infection
If a patient develops a urinary tract infection—such as urethritis, cystitis, or acute pyelonephritis—white blood cell counts often rise following embryo transfer. Treatment may include antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules or moxifloxacin hydrochloride capsules, taken as directed by a physician.
In addition, elevated white blood cells could also result from conditions such as bacterial pneumonia or acute appendicitis. If the underlying cause remains unclear, further diagnostic tests should be conducted under medical supervision, followed by appropriate treatment based on the diagnosis.
