Embryo Transfer
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The embryo transfer is the final stage of the in vitro fertilisation (IVF) process.
There are different types of embryo transfer: fresh, frozen, cleavage (day 2 or 3), blastocyst (day 5 or 6), single, and multiple embryos transfer.
The embryo transfer is usually performed without sedation, but in some cases sedation can be given. This will attract an additional charge by the centre.
How to prepare for your embryo transfer?
- On the day of embryo transfer, have your usual shower in the morning and wear comfortable clothes that are easy to remove.
- Do not wear any fragrances or perfume.
- An embryo transfer is usually not done under sedation so you can eat and drink normally before the procedure.
- Try and drink a few glasses of water before you arrive to the centre as you will be asked to keep a full bladder.
- You should take any medications that have been prescribed for you exactly as instructed.
- You may be asked to refrain from taking anything that is inserted vaginally (like a pessary) the morning of the transfer.
What will happen before your embryo transfer?
- You will be taken to the admission area.
- A nurse will issue you paperwork to complete upon arrival at the clinic. If you have received the consent forms electronically before the day of embryo transfer, please ensure that you read, sign and bring them with you.
- You will receive a gown to wear during the procedure.
- In preparation for the embryo transfer, the physician and the embryologist will discuss the number, grade and quality of embryo(s) to be transferred.
- You will also be advised if there are supernumerary embryos suitable for freezing on the same day, and whether there will be any embryos that will be observed until the following day before a decision to freeze them is made.
What happens during your embryo transfer?
- Embryo transfer is a simple procedure, and anaesthesia or sedation is rarely required.
- Prior to the transfer, the physician and the embryologist will confirm your name and date of birth to make sure it matches the identifying information on the embryo(s).
- The physician will insert a speculum into the vagina (similar to taking a smear test) to visualise the the cervix, which will then be cleaned gently to remove any mucous and discharge.
- A long, thin catheter containing the embryo(s), along with a small amount of culture media, is passed through the cervix into the uterus, where the embryo(s) are released.
- A transabdominal ultrasound is simultaneously performed to ensure optimal placement of the embryo(s) inside the uterus.
- A moderately full bladder is needed for embryo transfer as it allows good ultrasound visualisation of the catheter to transfer the embryo(s) as well as helping the position of the uterus.
- Most women do not experience any pain, but some may feel minor to mild discomfort as a result of having a speculum inserted in the vagina or from having a full bladder.
- After the embryo transfer procedure you will lie on your back and rest for a short time.
- If you need some additional medications your fertility team may dispense them on the day of embryo transfer or give you a prescription to get them from a pharmacy.
Side effects that you can experience after your embryo transfer:
- Pelvic cramping (similar to menstrual cramping).
- Pelvic and/or lower back pain.
- Light bleeding/spotting.
- Mild soreness in the vaginal area.
- Bloating and/or pressure on the bladder.
Once you are home and until the date of your pregnancy test:
- Take it easy on the day of your embryo transfer.
- Continue with the hormone medications as advised by your fertility team until the date of your pregnancy test, which is usually 10-12 days after the embryo transfer.
- You will be booked off from your normal activities and work on this day. You should be able to resume your normal activities and work the following day.
- Continue to take all medications as instructed by your fertility team.
- Medications for pain, high temperature, nausea, and constipation may be allowed but you need to consult with your physician first.
- Refrain from vigorous physical activity.
- Avoid sexual intercourse.
- Avoid any activity that raises your body temperature such as sauna, massage, steam room, jacuzzi, hot yoga, and heating pads.
- Avoid swimming.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking and caffeine.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
- Avoid late night activities.
- Maintain a positive outlook, find ways to relax and connect with your partner and/or friends during the waiting time between transfer and pregnancy test.
Reasons for cancelling the embryo transfer:
- You are not medically well enough.
- You have symptoms of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
- Embryos haven’t progressed to the adequate stage of development for transfer.
- The procedure cannot be performed without sedation and the anaesthetist to administer the medications for sedation is not available on the day.
- You are found to have fluid or blood within the uterus on transabdominal ultrasound scan on the day of embryo transfer.
- You have started bleeding and the lining of the uterus (womb) is thinner than before.
- You have forgotten to take the hormone medications recommended by your fertility team.
- You have decided since the egg collection to have the embryo(s) genetically tested before transfer.
Ready to start your journey?
Our commitment is to make fertility care accessible, successful and stress free for patients.
If you are ready to start your journey, book a consultation with one of our experienced fertility consultants.
