What is an Embryo Transfer?
An embryo transfer procedure involves transferring an embryo from a petri dish inside an IVF laboratory to a woman’s (the mother or gestational carrier) uterus.
Types of embryo transfers:
Fresh embryo transfer: the embryo transfer occurs a few days after an egg retrieval and the embryos are not frozen before they are transferred
Frozen embryo transfer: the embryo transfer occurs in a later menstrual cycle with an embryo that has been frozen. The embryo is typically thawed a few hours before the transfer procedure.
Day 3 embryo transfer: the transfer of an embryo that is 3 days old (insemination occurred 3 days prior)
Day 5 embryo transfer: the transfer of an embryo that is 5 days old
Medicated embryo transfer: medications are administered to help the uterine lining thicken in preparation for embryo implantation. These medications are often continued until 8-12 weeks gestation following a positive pregnancy or after a negative pregnancy result.
During the procedure
Embryo transfers are low-risk and usually take 5-10 minutes (unless complications arise). During the procedure, your doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina. An abdominal ultrasound is used to visualize the uterus and cervix.
An embryologist loads your embryo(s) into a transfer catheter, which is then inserted through the vagina into the uterus. When the tip of the catheter is in place on the ultrasound screen, the embryo(s) can be injected into the uterus. The catheter is then removed and the embryologist inspects it to ensure that the embryo(s) was successfully transferred.
After the procedure
A blood test is normally scheduled 9-11 days following an embryo transfer to determine if implantation occurred. This blood test measures the level of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the blood.
