Contrary to popular belief, embryo transfer is a streamlined and almost painless procedure. The actual embryo transfer process takes about 10 minutes only. During this procedure, the doctor places the embryo(s) into your uterus with the help of a catheter, guided by ultrasound imaging. You might feel mild cramping, but it’s nothing major to panic about. This step is precise, fast, and most importantly, it’s the final nudge to achieving parenthood. Knowing the details helps you feel more centered, prepared, and confident as you go through the process.
What Can You Expect Before Embryo Transfer?
Before the embryo transfer procedure, your fertility doctors ensure that your body is healthy enough to sustain embryo implantation. This involves using ultrasounds to check the lining of the uterus and adjusting any medication to make sure your body is ready for the embryo transfer method. For frozen embryo transfer, embryologists thaw the embryo(s).
Embryologists take about an hour or so to defrost a frozen embryo. To maintain the viability of the embryo, it’s necessary to thaw and treat it carefully. Your fertility specialist will guide you through the process and offer simple instructions on what to do before the transfer.
Get to Know About Frozen and Embryo Transfer
A frozen embryo transfer involves transferring an embryo that was previously frozen and thawed just before the procedure. This method is often used when embryos are created and frozen during an earlier IVF cycle. The frozen embryo transfer process follows the same basic steps as a fresh transfer but allows for more flexibility in timing. It also gives your body more time to recover after egg retrieval, which may improve the chances of implantation.
What to Do on the Day of Embryo Transfer
The day of your embryo transfer marks a thrilling and important turn. While the procedure itself is really simple, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure everything goes smoothly.
- Embryo transfer timing: At most IVF clinics, embryo transfer can be scheduled any day of the week. This makes the process more flexible and lowers stress about taking time off work.
- No anesthesia requirement: Unlike egg retrieval, the egg transfer procedure does not require anesthesia. This means you can eat a light, healthy breakfast or even lunch, depending on your appointment time.
- Fragrance-free zone: Avoid wearing perfumes or strong colognes. Embryos are sensitive to certain odours, and we want to ensure the environment is as neutral as possible to support the viability of your embryo.
- Full bladder needed: Many clinics ask patients to come with a full bladder for the embryo transfer procedure. A full bladder helps position the uterus to optimize the placement of the embryo. Your doctor will recommend you drink 1-1.5 litre 20-30 ounces of water about an hour before your appointment.
- Stay calm and positive: It’s normal to feel nervous, but this is a step toward your goal. Take deep breaths, stay positive, and trust your medical team. The embryo transfer procedure is a delicate and precise process, and your team will be there every step of the way.
What are the success rates of frozen embryo transfers?
The success rates of frozen embryo transfer are generally very high, especially when using high-quality embryos. In many cases, frozen embryo transfer has been shown to have comparable or even higher success rates than fresh transfers. The frozen embryo transfer process allows doctors to select the best embryos and provides the uterus with more time to recover from the egg retrieval process, improving the chances of successful implantation.
Additionally, the use of frozen blastocyst transfer (transferring embryos that have developed to the blastocyst stage) can further increase success rates. Blastocysts are more likely to implant, making frozen blastocyst transfer an increasingly popular choice among IVF patients.
Tips to Boost Your Chances of Embryo Transfer Success
- Stick to your medication schedule carefully. Watch instructional videos beforehand to feel confident about administering them. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about any doubts.
- Double-check that you have enough medication, especially if you’re planning to travel during your cycle.
- Keep stress levels under control: Go for a walk, enjoy relaxing music, try meditation or practice yoga.
- Consider acupuncture, light yoga, and meditation for relaxation.
- Follow a healthy diet and continue taking your prenatal vitamin with folic acid.
- Believe in what brings you peace, whether it’s prayer or staying positive—it all helps.