Frozen Embryo Transfer Timeline
When undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), couples may have the option to freeze excess embryos for future use. Frozen embryo transfer (FET) is the process of thawing and transferring these frozen embryos into the uterus to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy. If you are considering FET, it is important to understand the timeline and steps involved.
How long does the frozen embryo transfer process take?
The FET timeline can vary depending on a few factors, including the timing of the woman’s menstrual cycle and the type of medication used to prepare the uterus for implantation. On average, the timeline is as follows:
Day 2-3: The woman’s menstrual cycle is monitored, and blood tests and ultrasounds are performed to determine if it is suitable to start the preparation process.
Day 2-4: The woman begins taking medication to prepare the uterus for implantation. This usually includes estrogen to thicken the uterine lining and pregnancy supplements to support a developing pregnancy.
Day 10-12: The woman undergoes an ultrasound to ensure that the uterine lining is thick enough for implantation, and also has a blood test in order to monitor the ovulation time.
Day 13-14: She then starts using progesterone hormone medication to help maintain the lining.
Day 19-21: The frozen embryos are thawed and assessed for viability. The best embryo(s) are selected for transfer. The embryo(s) are transferred into the uterus.
What are the success rates of frozen embryo transfer?
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the success rates of FET are similar to those of fresh embryo transfer, with a pregnancy success rate of around 30% per transfer. However, the success rates can vary depending on several factors, including the age of the woman at the time of the original IVF cycle, the quality of the frozen embryos, and the number of embryos transferred.
Age: Women under 35 years old generally have a higher chance of success with FET, while women over 40 may have a lower chance.
Embryo quality: Embryos that were of high quality at the time of freezing have a better chance of implantation and success.
Number of embryos transferred: While transferring multiple embryos may increase the chances of pregnancy, it also increases the risk of multiple pregnancies, which can have additional health risks for both the mother and the babies.
What are the risks and complications of frozen embryo transfer?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with FET. These can include:
Multiple pregnancy: As mentioned earlier, transferring multiple embryos increases the risk of multiple pregnancies.
Ectopic pregnancy: In rare cases, the embryo may implant outside of the uterus, which can be life-threatening.
Bleeding or infection: Any medical procedure that involves inserting instruments into the body can carry the risk of bleeding or infection.
What can be done to improve the success rates of frozen embryo transfer?
While there is no guarantee of success with FET, there are several things that couples can do to improve their chances of a successful pregnancy. These include:
Choosing a high-quality fertility clinic: Look for a clinic that has a good track record of success with FET.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Both partners should maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco products.
Monitoring hormonal levels: The woman’s hormonal levels should be closely monitored throughout the FET process to ensure that the uterus is receptive to implantation.
Considering genetic testing: Embryos can be tested for genetic abnormalities prior to transfer, which can improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.
What is the cost of frozen embryo transfer?
The cost of FET can vary depending on the location, fertility clinic, and insurance coverage. On average, the cost of FET can range from $3,000 to $5,000 per cycle. It is important to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover any of the costs associated with FET.
Can frozen embryos be stored indefinitely?
Frozen embryos can be stored for many years, but the length of storage time may vary depending on the clinic’s policies and regulations. In some cases, couples may choose to donate their frozen embryos to other couples or for research purposes if they do not plan to use them for their own family building.
What happens to the remaining embryos after a successful pregnancy?
If a couple is successful in achieving a pregnancy through FET and has remaining frozen embryos, they may choose to store them for future use, donate them to other couples, or dispose of them. It is important to discuss these options with the fertility clinic prior to undergoing FET.
What should I expect during the FET procedure?
The FET procedure is a minimally invasive procedure that usually does not require anesthesia. The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes and involves inserting a thin catheter through the cervix and into the uterus to transfer the embryos. After the procedure, the woman may be advised to rest for a short period of time before resuming normal activities.
How long should I wait to take a pregnancy test after FET?
The woman should wait at least 10-14 days after the FET procedure before taking a pregnancy test. It is important to follow the fertility clinic’s instructions for when to take a pregnancy test, as testing too early can result in a false negative.
In conclusion, FET can be a viable option for couples who are unable to achieve a pregnancy through natural means or traditional IVF. By understanding the timeline, success rates, risks, and costs associated with FET, couples can make an informed decision about whether this procedure is right for them.
