Understanding and deciding which fertility treatment to try can be an overwhelming and emotional process for intended parents starting their IVF journey.
The final procedure before your blood pregnancy test for intended parents undergoing IVF is an embryo transfer. Embryo transfer is a critical step in the IVF process and one that requires careful preparation. But what does an embryo transfer entail for you, and what are your options when the long-awaited day arrives?
What is an embryo transfer?
Embryo transfer is the process of taking a fertilised egg and sperm and implanting the newly formed embryo into a woman’s uterus. Because the placement of the embryos within the uterus must be precise, your fertility doctor will use an ultrasound to guide this transfer. The goal of an embryo transfer is to establish a pregnancy.
Embryo transfer is typically performed three to five days after egg retrieval. On the day of transfer, the embryologist will select the healthiest embryo(s) for transfer. The selected embryo(s) is then placed in a thin catheter and inserted into the uterus through the cervix. The entire embryo transfer procedure takes about 15 minutes, and you can go home immediately afterwards. You will need to remain on bed rest for two to four hours after the procedure, during which time you should drink plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous activity.
If all goes well, you will likely start to experience pregnancy symptoms within two weeks of the embryo transfer. These symptoms may include nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and frequent urination. A blood test or ultrasound can confirm pregnancy approximately two weeks after embryo transfer.
Embryo transfers are an excellent option for intended parents who have:
➢ Damage or blockage of the fallopian tubes: The egg will struggle to become fertilised and travel to the uterus if your fallopian tubes are damaged or blocked.
➢ Ovulation difficulties: Irregular or absent menstrual cycles result in fewer eggs available for fertilisation, making natural pregnancy more difficult.
➢ Endometriosis: This affects the function of the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes when uterine tissue implants and grows outside of a woman’s uterus.
➢ Fibroids in the uterus: These are benign tumours on the uterine wall that can interfere with embryo implantation, which is required for a successful pregnancy.
➢ Tubal ligation: If your fallopian tubes have been permanently cut or removed, IVF and embryo transfer can help you conceive.
➢ Inadequate sperm motility or morphology: Male factor infertility is common, accounting for one-third of all infertility cases. ICSI to fertilise the egg can result in a viable embryo for implantation.
How to prepare for an embryo transfer?
If you’re considering IVF, you may be wondering how to prepare for an embryo transfer. The embryo transfer process is relatively simple, but there are a few things you can do to help ensure a successful transfer.
- It is always important to have a good understanding of the process. Be sure to ask your doctor or fertility clinic any questions you have so that you know what to expect.
- Take some time to relax and de-stress before the procedure. This can help your body be more receptive to the embryos.
- Eat healthily and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol in the lead-up to the transfer. This will help improve your chances of success.
- Trust your doctor and team. They will guide you through every step of the process and help ensure that everything goes smoothly.
Types of embryo transfers:
Frozen embryo transfers (FETs) and Fresh embryo transfers (ETs)
Previous IVF cycles’ embryos can be stored and frozen indefinitely. As a result, many intended parents with leftover embryos from previous egg retrievals opt to thaw and then transfer their surplus embryos.
Fresh embryo transfer is less common than FET, but it may be recommended in some cases. In a fresh ET, embryos that were created during IVF are transferred to the woman’s uterus immediately after they are created.
IVF success rates in Kerala
IVF success rates in Kerala vary depending on the clinic you go to, but are typically quite high. The average IVF success rate in Kerala is around 60-70%, which is significantly higher than the national average of 40%. There are several factors that contribute to the high success rates in Kerala, including the experience of the doctors and staff, the use of advanced technology, and the overall supportive environment. If you’re looking for the best IVF treatment centre that provides excellent care at a reasonable cost in Kerala, do your research and select a clinic with a proven track record of success. Working with an experienced and reputable IVF centre is the best way to ensure a successful transfer. We have a team of experienced professionals at Goodwill IVF who can assist you every step of the way.
