In Vitro Fertilization Process: Embryo Transfer

After the completion on the retrieval process you will be notified of the number of fertilizations that occurred. Be sure to leave a phone number where you can be reached. Phone calls are made before 1 p.m. the day after retrieval.

You and the physician will discuss the transfer day when you are called with fertilization results. Embryo transfers are done either on day two or day three following the retrieval.

The number of embryos, patient’s age, and information from previous cycles can influence the day of transfer. These factors combined with the day of transfer influence how many embryos are put back.

Patients having an embryo transfer on a weekday should arrive in the clinic at 8:30 a.m. If the embryo transfer falls on a weekend the arrival time may vary. The usual arrival time for the weekend transfers is between 6:30 a.m. and 7 a.m.

Procedure

Here’s what the procedure involves:

1. You will be taken to the procedure room and assisted into the correct position.
2. A normal speculum will be use to view the opening of the cervix.
3. A special media/wash is used to clean the vaginal canal and cervix.
4. The embryologist will place the embryos into a thin plastic catheter that is then handed to the physician.
5. The physician will place the catheter into the cervical canal and into the uterus.
6. The embryo(s) will be transferred into the uterus.
7. The embryologist will inspect the catheter to make sure all the embryos are out of the catheter.

Following the completion of the procedure you will be able to get dressed and conduct your normal activities for the remainder of the day. Activity will not impact on the outcome of the pregnancy so there is no "medical" reason to restrict your activity.

Post-Procedure Instructions

• Patients may choose to remain recumbent with slight trendelenburg for one hour at home.
• There may be some leakage of fluid when rising for the first time. This is the cleaning media, not the embryos.
• Patients should do whatever they think is necessary so they will have no regrets if pregnancy does not result.
• Report any pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge.
• A pregnancy test will be performed 14 days after embryo transfer. If the procedure is performed on a Saturday, then a pregnancy test will be giving 13 days after. If performed on a Sunday, then 15 days after.