# Frozen Embryo Transfer

> Citation bundle for Frozen Embryo Transfer on The Treatment Registry.
> URL: https://thetreatmentregistry.com/procedures/frozen-embryo-transfer
> Bundle URL: https://thetreatmentregistry.com/api/citations/procedures/frozen-embryo-transfer

- Category: ivf-fertility

## Description

Embryo transfer refers to a step in the process of assisted reproduction in which embryos are placed into the uterus of a female with the intent to establish a pregnancy. This technique - which is often used in connection with in vitro fertilization (IVF) - may be used in humans or in other animals, in which situations and goals may vary.

## Overview

Embryo transfer is the step in assisted reproduction in which one or more embryos are placed into the uterus with the intent of establishing a pregnancy, most often in connection with in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). The transfer can be performed at the cleavage stage, on day two or three of embryo development, or at the blastocyst stage, on days five to six — a technique first performed in 1984. Its success is influenced by endometrial receptivity, embryo quality and the transfer technique itself. During the procedure a speculum is placed to visualise the cervix, which is cleansed with saline solution or culture media. A transfer catheter is loaded with the embryos and, after the patient's identity is confirmed, is passed through the cervical canal and advanced into the uterine cavity, where the embryos are expelled and deposited. Several measures are supported by evidence to improve results: using a soft rather than a hard catheter, guiding the transfer with abdominal ultrasound to confirm placement about 1 to 2 centimetres from the uterine fundus, removing cervical mucus, and using transfer media enriched with hyaluronic acid. Single embryo transfers in particular require accuracy and precision in placement within the uterine cavity. Anaesthesia is generally not required, and immediate walking is possible once the transfer is complete.

## FAQs

### What is embryo transfer?

It is a step in assisted reproduction in which embryos are placed into the uterus of a woman with the intent of establishing a pregnancy. It is often used in connection with in-vitro fertilisation (IVF).

### When during development are embryos transferred?

Transfer can be performed at the cleavage stage, on day two or three, or at the blastocyst stage, on days five to six. Blastocyst-stage transfer was first performed in 1984.

### How is the transfer performed?

A speculum is placed to visualise the cervix, which is cleansed with saline or culture media. A transfer catheter is loaded with the embryos, and after the patient's identity is confirmed it is passed through the cervical canal into the uterine cavity, where the embryos are expelled and deposited.

### Is anaesthesia needed?

Anaesthesia is generally not required for embryo transfer, and immediate walking is possible once the procedure is complete.

### What improves the chance of success?

Success is influenced by endometrial receptivity, embryo quality and the transfer technique. Measures supported by evidence include using a soft transfer catheter, abdominal ultrasound guidance, placement about 1 to 2 centimetres from the uterine fundus, removal of cervical mucus, and transfer media enriched with hyaluronic acid.

### Does ultrasound guidance help?

Yes. There is good and consistent evidence that using abdominal ultrasound guidance to ensure correct placement significantly increases clinical pregnancy compared with relying on 'clinical touch' alone.