Women who visit fertility clinics have a variety of options to conceive. Among them is in vitro fertilization (IVF), which is a procedure that involves collecting mature eggs from the ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a lab. After the eggs are fertilized, they may be frozen for later use. Here’s what you should know about frozen embryo transfers.

What to Know About Frozen Embryo Transfers

What is it?

Frozen embryo transfers (FET) involve thawing the frozen embryo and transferring it to the uterus. These embryos are sourced from a previous IVF cycle or donor. Couples select this fertility option if there are additional embryos left over after the initial IVF treatment.

If no additional embryos remain after IVF, patients can go through a fresh cycle and freeze the newly harvested eggs. Keeping the embryos on ice is a viable option that allows couples to take their time deciding what they want to do.

What happens during this procedure?

First, an ultrasound will be taken to confirm that there are no existing fertility concerns. Then, progesterone and estrogen are injected every three days up to three weeks—this prepares the uterus for implantation. On transplant day, the embryos are thawed and painlessly transferred using a catheter.

What are the advantages of freezing?

Freezing embryos provides you with extra chances to get pregnant, as they’re viable for years. There’s also less medication involved during FET in comparison to IVF. Additionally, you won’t have to visit the fertility clinic frequently, making it easier to fit the treatment into your schedule.

Who’s a candidate for FET?

Enhancements in technology and treatments have made it possible for healthy women to have babies at different stages of their lives. Many fertility clinics offer this option to females between the ages of 18 and 50, while some may have a cutoff age in the mid-40s.

If you’re considering FET and want to learn more, contact the team at IVF HAWAII in Honolulu. This fertility clinic helps couples realize their dream of creating a family, offering IVF treatments, egg freezing, and embryo transfers. Call (808) 538-6655 to schedule a consultation, and get more information about your first visit online.