The embryo transfer is one of the most important steps of IVF
The embryo transfer is one of the last steps of IVF at our Connecticut fertility center. The transfer consists of Dr. Andrew Levi placing an embryo into the uterus of the patient or their gestational surrogate. This is a simple procedure that ideally results in the patient or the surrogate seeing a positive pregnancy test about two weeks later.
What happens during an embryo transfer at our clinic?
After the initial steps of IVF, the embryo transfer takes place at our Connecticut fertility center. On the day of the transfer, an embryologist prepares the embryo for transfer by placing it in a catheter (a small tube). In the case of a frozen transfer, the patient or the gestational surrogate will take medication starting two weeks before the transfer to prepare the uterine lining for implantation.
Step one of the transfer involves Dr. Levi placing a speculum into the woman’s vagina. He will remove the cervical mucous that could make it difficult for the embryo to reach the top portion of the uterus. Next, using ultrasound for direction, Dr. Levi places the embryo into the woman’s uterus. This process typically takes less than 10 minutes.
After the transfer, the patient or the surrogate continues to take medications to thicken the lining of the uterus and increase the chance of implantation.
The benefits of doing a frozen transfer
Dr. Levi performs frozen embryo transfers because they offer many benefits to his patients.
Scheduling the transfer. When using a frozen embryo, the transfer can take place at any time.
Performing genetic testing. A frozen transfer allows patients to have preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) on their embryos.
Chance of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). A frozen transfer reduces a patient’s risk of developing OHSS. This is because the fertility medications leave her system before she has the transfer, and OHSS occurs in response to excess hormones.
Safe and effective. A special type of flash-freezing called vitrification makes it possible to safely freeze and thaw embryos.
Contact us for more information about the steps of IVF.