Frozen Embryo Transfer Step-by-Step

FET (frozen embryo transfer) is a procedure in assisted reproductive technology (ART) in which an embryo, previously frozen during an earlier IVF cycle, is thawed and implanted into the uterus.

Frozen embryo transfers play a crucial role in helping families fulfill their dreams of having a child through surrogacy.

Learn more about the medical process of surrogacy and how you can prepare for your frozen embryo transfer when you fill out this simple form.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the frozen embryo transfer process step by step, medications, thawing process, embryo transfer procedure, the two-week wait and the support you’ll need throughout.

Step-by-Step Overview of the Frozen Embryo Transfer Process

A frozen embryo transfer is a medical procedure where a previously frozen embryo is carefully thawed and placed into the uterus, with the goal of achieving pregnancy. This differs from a fresh embryo transfer, where embryos created in the same cycle are immediately transferred.

While both types of transfers serve the same purpose, FET (frozen embryo transfer) has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility and success rates.

Step 1: Medications

The process for embryo transfer from frozen begins with medication. In order to prepare the uterus for the transferred embryo, you will begin taking hormone medications, typically including:

These medications are carefully timed, and your fertility team will monitor your progress with ultrasounds and blood tests to ensure your body is responding appropriately to the treatment. This preparation phase usually lasts for several weeks.

Step 2: Thawing of the Embryo

Once your body is ready, the next step in the frozen embryo transfer process is thawing the embryo. The embryo that was previously frozen during a prior IVF cycle is carefully thawed in a controlled environment.

Not all embryos survive the freezing and thawing process, so the clinic may thaw more than one embryo to increase the chances of successful implantation.

After thawing, the embryos are checked for quality and are ready for the transfer.

Step 3: Embryo Transfer Procedure

The frozen embryo transfer process then moves to the actual transfer procedure. This is a minimally invasive procedure that typically does not require anesthesia.

Here are the main steps:

Step 4: Two-Week Wait

The two-week wait begins immediately after the frozen embryo transfer. During this time, you must wait for a pregnancy test to determine whether implantation has been successful. Your doctor may monitor your hormone levels with blood tests during this period.

• Emotional Support: This can be an emotionally stressful time, so it’s important to have support. Many surrogates and women undergoing fertility treatments rely on counseling, support groups, or close family members to help them manage the wait.
• Physical Symptoms: You may experience mild cramping, bloating, or spotting as your body adjusts to the hormonal medications.

Step 5: Pregnancy Monitoring and Support

Once the two-week wait is over, a blood test is done to check for pregnancy. If positive, your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments, including ultrasounds, to monitor the development of the pregnancy.

Ongoing emotional and physical support is crucial, as the early stages of pregnancy can be a time of uncertainty. Your clinic may provide additional counseling, and support groups or fertility coaches can also help.

How long does frozen embryo transfer take?

The process for frozen embryo transfer is relatively quick. The transfer itself only takes about 10-20 minutes. However, the entire process, from medication to the transfer, can take several weeks.

What to Expect After the Frozen Embryo Transfer

After the transfer, you may notice several symptoms as your body reacts to the medication and the implantation process. Some common experiences include:

It’s important to communicate with your fertility team if you experience anything out of the ordinary. They can help guide you through the process and address any concerns.

Benefits of Frozen Embryo Transfer vs. Fresh Embryo Transfer

The frozen embryo transfer (frozen embryo transfer process) offers several advantages over fresh embryo transfer:

• Better Uterine Conditions: Freezing embryos allows the doctor to optimize the timing of the transfer, as the uterus can be better prepared without the need to rush the process.
• Flexibility: Frozen embryos can be transferred at a later time, allowing for more flexibility in timing and providing additional chances if initial attempts do not result in a pregnancy.
• Lower Risk of OHSS: Frozen embryo transfers can minimize the risk of having Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome.

Begin Your Journey

Helping a family achieve their dreams of parenthood through surrogacy can be a beautiful and rewarding journey.

Learn more about the medical process of surrogacy and find out if you’re eligible to become a surrogate when you fill out this simple form.