Frozen embryo transfer (FET) is a fertility treatment in which a previously frozen embryo, created through in vitro fertilization (IVF), is thawed and placed into a woman’s uterus. FET allows individuals or couples to use embryos stored from an earlier IVF cycle, providing another opportunity for pregnancy without undergoing a new egg retrieval process. The FET process offers flexibility as it allows patients to plan the timing of potential pregnancies.
Dr Lindheim reviews your medical history, previous IVF cycles, and the quality of your frozen embryos. Together, a plan is developed for your FET cycle, including whether a natural or medicated cycle is recommended.
The timing of the transfer is critical and is synchronized with your menstrual cycle. During this step, the goal is to prepare the uterus for implantation. There are two common approaches:
On the day of transfer, the embryo is carefully thawed in the lab. The embryologist will assess the embryo to ensure it has survived the freezing/thawing process and is suitable for transfer.
The transfer procedure is generally quick, painless, and similar to a routine gynecological exam. You may experience mild cramping, but no anesthesia is typically needed. A thin catheter is guided through the cervix into the uterus, and the embryo is placed in the optimal location. Ultrasound guidance is used to ensure precise placement. After the transfer, we recommend that you rest for a short period before resuming your normal activities.
Hormonal support with progesterone (begun prior to the transfer) continues for several days to help maintain the uterine lining. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and intercourse during this time.
About 9 to 12 days after the transfer, a blood test (beta hCG) is done to determine if the embryo has implanted successfully and a pregnancy has begun. If the result is positive, hormonal support with progesterone is continued. Blood tests will be repeated over the next two to four weeks to be sure the pregnancy is progressing normally. An ultrasound will be performed approximately two to three weeks after the first pregnancy test to visualize and assess the pregnancy.