The embryo transfer is a straightforward procedure that typically lasts around five minutes. Unlike some medical procedures, it does not require anesthesia or an extended recovery period. The experience will closely resemble the mock embryo transfer conducted earlier in your treatment cycle.
When the embryo transfer date arrives, your nurse will inform you and provide detailed instructions on what time to arrive and how to prepare for the procedure.
Determining the Number of Embryos to Transfer
On the morning of the transfer, the embryologist will evaluate your embryos one last time and recommend the number of embryos to transfer based on their quality and age, ideally at day 5 or 6. Your physician will take this recommendation into account, along with your age and any prior treatment history, to make the final decision.
In certain cases, physicians may recommend an elective single embryo transfer (eSET), which involves transferring just one high-quality embryo even when multiple are available. This approach can reduce the likelihood of multiple births while maintaining a comparable chance of pregnancy. eSET is often suggested for women aged 37 or younger, those undergoing their first IVF cycle or who have had a previous successful cycle, and those with a high-quality blastocyst.
Before the transfer, you will discuss your treatment cycle with your physician. Together, you will decide how many embryos to transfer and what to do with any remaining embryos. For the well-being of both the patient and the baby, it’s encouraged to aim for single pregnancies.
Once the number of embryos for transfer is settled, the embryologist will double-check all identifiers to ensure accuracy. The transfer catheter is then prepared with the designated embryos. Upon entering the transfer room, the embryologist will announce your name and the number of embryos in the catheter. A live feed of the embryology lab will be displayed on a monitor in the room, allowing you to verify your details and the selected embryos.
The Embryo Transfer Procedure
During the transfer, the doctor will carefully insert the catheter and release the embryo(s) into the uterus using a gentle puff of air. This process is guided by an abdominal ultrasound, allowing for precise placement. After the transfer, the doctor will slowly withdraw the catheter to minimize any uterine contractions. The embryologist will then examine the catheter under a microscope to confirm that the embryo has been successfully released.
After the procedure, you’ll be asked to lie still for about five minutes. Finally, you’ll receive instructions on what to do over the next two weeks until it’s time for your pregnancy test.
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In summary, the embryo transfer process is an essential step in IVF, aiming to optimize the chances of pregnancy while prioritizing patient safety. You’ll work closely with your medical team to make informed decisions regarding embryo transfer, ensuring a supportive journey through the process.