Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer usually occurs on the third day following egg retrieval. Some couples may benefit from a day 5 blastocyst transfer also known as blastocyst transfer. Blastocyst transfer involves growing embryos to the blastocyst stage (usually day 5), which allows for more accurate assessment of the embryos' implantation potential. One of the benefits of blastocyst transfer is that it allows for transfer of fewer embryos, minimizing the multiple pregnancy rate while maximizing the opportunity for a singleton pregnancy. This will be individualized based on discussion with your physician.

The number of embryos transferred will be determined in order to maximize the opportunity for a singleton pregnancy. Several patient specific considerations determine this number including:

• age of female partner
• stimulation cycle
• quality of embryos
• number of embryos suitable for cryopreservation and
• previous fertility history.

Individual recommendations will be made.

The procedure of embryo transfer is comfortable and does not require sedation (comparable to a pap smear). The patient is requested to have a full bladder so that transfer may be visualized using ultrasound guidance using an abdominal probe. The embryos are loaded into a fine catheter and passed though the cervix, into the uterus. Gentle pressure is applied to the catheter syringe and the embryos are released into the uterus. The female partner is asked to rest for approximately one half hour and is then discharged home. If the patient lives a significant drive or flight from Calgary they are advised to stay overnight post transfer.

Progesterone supplementation is started the day after oocyte retrieval for luteal phase support following embryo transfer.

A urine pregnancy test is arranged for local patients approximately 16 days following embryo transfer. This test should be done at a laboratory and a home test is not recommended. If the patient does not live locally, the pregnancy test should be arranged with their family physician. Please notify the clinic of all pregnancy test results.