This procedure will transfer the embryo, the early stage of development after the fertilised egg has divided, produced during an in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle into the uterus. In general, an embryo transfer may follow an egg pick up (a fresh embryo transfer) or be independent of an egg pick up, using a previously frozen embryo (a frozen embryo transfer).
Why is this done?
The embryo needs to be transferred into the uterus for implantation in conjunction with your IVF treatment.
How is this done?
The procedure is normally performed without an anaesthetic in an IVF clinic. This procedure usually involves an abdominal ultrasound, insertion of a vaginal speculum like would be used for a Pap smear or CST and inserting the embryo transfer catheter, a narrow tube, through the cervix into the correct position. Once the position is confirmed on ultrasound, the embryo is then transferred. The procedure itself takes approximately ten minutes, but you can expect to be in the clinic for about 30 minutes.
What should I do before the procedure?
Your provider will advise you on what medications you should be taking. This usually involves progesterone supplementation as advised by your clinic but may involve other medications. You should continue any other regular medications, unless advised otherwise. Should you develop an illness prior to your surgery, please contact our office immediately.
What should I do on the day of the procedure?
You should follow the instructions on the Final Instructions. Unless otherwise specified, you do not need to stop eating or drinking on the day of the transfer.
You should drink a full glass of water in the 30 minutes prior to your transfer so you have a half-full bladder, but you should not feel too full. If you are feeling uncomfortable with a full bladder, please empty your bladder to a point where you are comfortable.
You should wear comfortable clothing and avoid any strong perfumes.
You should continue all your usual medications, unless otherwise specified.
What should I expect after the procedure?
You can empty your bladder afterwards and treat yourself as pregnant from this point on.
You can expect some mild pelvic discomfort. You will be given specific discharge medication if required, but you may use Panadol as required (one to two tablets every four hours up to a maximum of eight tablets per day).
Your clinic will advise if and when you can resume normal sexual activity. You should be able to return to work on the day of the procedure.
What is the success rate of the embryo transfer?
In general, the success rate depends on the age of the woman when the embryo was created, the stage and quality of the embryo (especially whether it has been genetically tested) and other individual factors, such as the uterine environment.
If the embryo needs to be thawed prior to the transfer, there is a small risk that the embryo may not survive the freeze-thaw. This is dependent on the lab and quality of the embryo.
In general, the success rates of your clinic can be found at yourivfsuccess.com.au
The clinic will advise you when to perform the pregnancy test.
What if I have any problems?
You should notify the following problems:
fever or feeling unwell
offensive vaginal discharge or heavy bleeding
intractable nausea or vomiting
inability to empty your bladder or bowels
severe pain