Embryo transfer
What is embryo transfer?
It is the transfer of embryos in the uterus. Embryo transfer is painless, does not require analgesia and lasts 5-10 minutes.
It is performed using a thin flexible catheter that is inserted vaginally, through the cervix into the uterine cavity. The embryologist selects the best embryos for transfer according to morphological criteria and aspirates them into the catheter along with a minimal volume of culture medium.
The gynaecologist insert the catheter into the cavity of the womb, where he deposits the embryos with highly sensitive and non-traumatic manipulations. The progression and exact location of the catheter is constantly controlled using ultrasound (ultrasound guidance).
The embryo transfer is performed in our Unit on days 2 or 3 following egg collection.
In the case of blastocyst transfer, the procedure takes place on the 5th or 6th day after egg collection.
What preparations are required?
The only kind of preparation required is to drink 4 glasses of water without urinating before arriving at the Unit, as the embryo transfer is performed under pelvic ultrasound.
You should refrain from using perfume as it may be toxic to the embryos. Remember to bring your Ultragestan pills with you. You can eat normally.
How many embryos will be transferred?
An important decision that must be taken after discussion with the couple involves the number of embryos transferred to the uterus. We will inform you about the quality of your embryos before the embryo transfer.
According to national legislation the number of embryos transferred must not exceed three for women below the age of 40, and four for women over 40 years of age. However, this number can be further reduced in special cases (e.g. young woman with good quality embryos) without impairing the outcome. The factors that must be taken in consideration include embryo quality, age of the woman and medical history.
The choice of number of embryos transferred must meet a fine balance between the increasing pregnancy chances, which are usually enhanced by increasing the number of embryos, and at the same time reducing the chances of a multiple pregnancy, which is achieved by reducing the number of embryos.
Internationally, there is a tendency to reduce the number of embryos for transfer to one, as multiple pregnancy is not regarded as a successful achievement any more, but an undesirable side effect of IVF.
What happens next?
After the embryo transfer you will remain in our Unit for about an hour. Together with instructions for drugs (usually progesterone pills or cream) we shall give you a photograph of the embryos transferred to your womb.
Usually, the first pregnancy test is performed 13 days later (blood levels of -hCG).
What should I be careful of in the next few days?
The embryos will implant to your womb 4-5 days after a day 2 or day 3 transfer, and 1-3 days after a blastocyst transfer.
Therefore, during these days, it is advisable to avoid physical or psychological tension and sexual intercourse. It is not necessary to skip work, as long as it is not overly tiring. Dietary habits can remain unaltered.
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