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In-Vitro Fertilization - Embryo Transfer
(IVF-ET)
STEP 4 - EMBRYO REPLACEMENT
The embryo transfer is performed 2-5 days after the egg retrieval. The replacement of the fertilized eggs into the uterus is a relatively simple procedure. Anesthesia is rarely required. The transfer is performed by inserting a catheter through the cervix and carefully placing the embryos into the
uterus under ultrasound monitoring. The woman is then required to stay in a comfortable but reclined position for approximately
30 minutes after the embryos have been
transferred.
We have found that embryo transfer is greatly enhanced by performing a "mock embryo transfer" before the IVF cycle even begins. This allows our physicians to precisely place the embryos into the uterus.
The type of embryo transfer catheters used at FSAC are aimed to
facilitate the ease of embryo transfer and minimize embryo and uterine trauma. The number of embryos to be
replaced is determined after a discussion of pregnancy rates and options. Blastocyst transfer (using
more developed 5-day "blastocyst-stage" embryos) may increase pregnancy rates for some
patients while minimizing the risk of multiple implantations
by offering greater selection of viable embryos.
After embryo transfer, limited physical activity is recommended for the next
one to three days. After this time, most normal activities can be resumed
unless specific instructions are given.
Additional fertilized eggs (embryos) beyond the number transferred may be frozen (cryopreserved) for use in future cycles. These frozen embryos can be thawed
later and transferred into the uterine cavity and avoids another cycle of ovarian stimulation and egg collection.
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