What is IVF Embryo Transfer?
For a natural pregnancy, sperm needs to fertilize an egg in the fallopian tube, and the embryo must implant in the uterus. However, some people face issues like low sperm count, blocked tubes, or poor egg quality, making natural pregnancy difficult.
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) helps by combining eggs and sperm in a lab to create embryos. These embryos grow for 5-6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage, which is ideal for transfer. One embryo is placed in the uterus using ultrasound guidance, while the rest are frozen for future use.
Types of Embryo Transfers
There are different types of embryo transfer, and the best IVF specialist in Mumbai will select the most suitable option for each patient:
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
Frozen embryos are thawed and transferred. This allows genetic testing to reduce risks.
Fresh Embryo Transfer
Embryos are transferred 5-6 days after fertilization without freezing.
Day 3 Embryo Transfer
Used when embryos might not survive until day 5.
Day 5 Embryo Transfer
Preferred as the embryo reaches the blastocyst stage, improving success rates.
When is Embryo Transfer Done in IVF?
Embryo transfer happens on day 3 or day 5 of the IVF cycle. Day 5 is preferred because the embryo is more developed.
Benefits and Risks of Embryo Transfer
Benefits
- Helps couples conceive when natural pregnancy isn’t possible.
- Genetic testing reduces the risk of genetic diseases.
- Frozen embryos allow future pregnancies without repeating IVF.
- Only healthy embryos are used, lowering miscarriage risks.
Risks
- Hormonal treatment may cause blood clots.
- The embryo may not implant successfully.
- Higher chances of twin pregnancies, which can be riskier.
Step-by-Step IVF and Embryo Transfer Process
The embryo transfer process is quick and painless, like a pap smear:
- A speculum is inserted into the vagina, and an ultrasound guides the process.
- A catheter is passed through the cervix into the uterus.
- The embryo is placed into the uterus through the catheter.
- The patient rests for about an hour.
The whole process takes 2-4 hours, but the actual transfer lasts 15-30 minutes.
How Many Embryos Are Transferred?
The number of embryos transferred depends on age:
- Under 30: Usually 1 embryo.
- 30-35: Up to 2 embryos.
- Over 35: More than 2 embryos may be transferred.
Precautions After Embryo Transfer
After the transfer, patients should:
- Rest and avoid stress.
- Avoid heavy exercise.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Take prescribed supplements.
- Avoid intercourse until pregnancy is confirmed.
Conclusion
IVF and embryo transfer bring hope to couples facing fertility issues. With modern reproductive technology, many people can achieve parenthood. If you are considering IVF, consult a specialist to find the best approach for you.
