Embryo Transfer (Fresh / Frozen)
The step where embryos are placed into the uterus to achieve pregnancy—either in the same IVF cycle or in a later, planned cycle.
Purpose
Transfer embryos into the uterus to achieve pregnancy.
Embryo transfer is the final step of IVF where an embryo is gently placed into the uterus using a thin catheter. The timing depends on whether you are doing a Fresh Transfer or a Frozen Transfer (FET). Your specialist will recommend the best option based on your hormone levels, uterine lining, symptoms, and overall safety.
Fresh Transfer: Same cycle as egg retrieval.
Frozen Transfer (FET): Embryos transferred in a subsequent cycle for better uterine receptivity.
Procedure
A quick outpatient procedure where an embryo is placed into the uterus either as a fresh transfer in the same cycle or as a frozen transfer (FET) in a later cycle.
Decide Fresh vs Frozen
Your doctor confirms whether a fresh transfer is appropriate in the same cycle as retrieval, or whether a frozen transfer (FET) is safer or more effective based on your body’s response and uterine lining.
Prepare the Uterus
For fresh transfer, the uterus is prepared naturally within the IVF stimulation cycle. For FET, the uterus is prepared in a later cycle either naturally or with medications to support better receptivity.
Embryo Thaw (for FET) / Embryo Selection
For FET, the embryo is carefully thawed in the lab before transfer. For fresh transfer, the embryo is selected from the current cycle based on development.
Embryo Transfer Procedure
A thin catheter is used to place the embryo into the uterus gently. The procedure is typically quick, done as an outpatient visit, and usually involves minimal downtime.
Benefits and Evidence
Benefits:
Reduces stress on ovaries.- Improves implantation rates in selected cases.
FET can also allow time for recovery and better cycle planning when recommended.
Evidence:
FET associated with higher pregnancy success and lower risk of complications in certain patients.
Your specialist will recommend fresh vs frozen based on what is safest and most effective for your individual condition.
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