Embryo transfer

The embryos are usually selected on day 3 or day 5 after retrieval. The number of embryos chosen for transfer will depend on a number of factors such as the maternal age, quality of embryos and results of previous cycles. After the transfer is complete the catheter is checked to ensure that none all the embryos are left behind.

Embryo transfer can cause mild cramping.

After transfer, the woman may get dressed and leave after a brief recovery period. A pregnancy test will be done twelve to fourteen days after the transfer, regardless of the occurance of any uterine bleeding.

The transfer of several embryos increases the probability of success. A multiple embryo transfer also increases the risk of a multiple pregnancy. Any multiple pregnancy carries an increased risk of miscarriage(s), premature labor and premature birth as well as an increased financial and emotional cost.

Video
The video shows an embryo transfer by ultrasound. The uterus is in the middle with the cervix on the right hand side. The catheter enters the vagina on the right and we can see it pass through the cervix and into the uterus. A small amount of media is released containing the embryos followed by an air bubble, this can just be seen as a white flash. The catheter is then removed and the transfer is complete.

Click here for video