Embryos might be transferred anytime whether on 2-cell development stage or on multi-cell blastocyst stage but most common is to performed transfer when 4 or 8-cell stage was achieved. It usually happens on the second or third day. In other words transfer might be done between 2 and 6 days.
In assisted reproductive technologies direct connection exists between the number of transferred embryos and chances for clinical pregnancy. Best results are achieved when transferring 2-4 embryos, but it may lead to multiply pregnancy. However chances for multiply pregnancy becomes lower depending on woman's age. While tending to avoid complications referred to multiply pregnancy and to reduce the risk of preterm delivery a lot of countries have provided restrictions for the number of embryos to be transferred. It is allowed to transfer more than two embryos only to women of 37 years and older or to those whose previous IVF cycles were not successful. Nowadays it is recommended to transfer only one blastocyst to patients who are younger than 35 years.
During transferring procedure patient takes the same position as for gynecological examination. After speculum was inserted into vagina it is cleaned with sterile saline. Then cervix is cleaned with special culture liquids. Embryologist will bring prepared embryos from laboratory in transfer catheter and doctor will deposit it into the uterus with the help of ultrasound.
Embryo transfer is not painful procedure and doesn't require anesthesia.
After the procedure hormone medication in form of injection, suppository or cream will be given to a patient in order to support endometrium. If pregnancy happens such kind of supportive treatment will be continued within 10 weeks. If pregnancy didn't occur and menstrual bleeding has started treatment should be interrupted the same time.
Patient will be invited for pregnancy test in 12 days after embryo transfer.
BLASTOCYST TRANSFER
In some cases it can be expected until the blastocyst stage for transfer. Depending on the quality, number of embryos, and why IVF is made, this decision will be made with your doctor .
The goal of blastocyst transfer is to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy while increasing the chances of pregnancy by choosing higher quality embryos
