Embryo Transfer: Types, Purpose, Needs, and Procedure

Embryo transfer is an advanced and crucial procedure in assisted reproductive technology or ART. Many individuals across the globe are eager to build a family but unable to do so. For such people, this technique proves to be a beacon of hope. This is because it increases the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy. People often turn to this technique when conceiving naturally seems difficult, and treatments like timed intercourse haven’t helped either.

As there are new advancements in the field of medical science, ART procedures are also refined. This leads to curiosity among people about what happens after embryo transfer and how it can be helpful for them. Furthermore, understanding the purpose of embryo transfer and what to expect from the procedure is also important. This helps you manage the emotional and physical demands of this technique.

In the sections that follow, we have discussed what embryo transfer actually is, its types, needs, expectations, and the various body changes after embryo transfer that you will be able to observe. 

What is IVF Embryo Transfer?

Embryo transfer is the final step in the process of IVF or in vitro fertilization. This medical procedure used in assisted reproductive technology involves the placement of the fertilized egg (embryo) into the uterus of the woman. Techniques like PICSI may also be used to maximize the chances of success. The goal of the embryo transfer procedure is to establish a successful pregnancy.

Post implantation, the embryo grows to become a fetus, and eventually, the woman gives birth to a healthy child. The embryo is carefully selected and transferred into the uterus using a thin catheter. The embryo transfer procedure is generally straightforward and minimally invasive. It is usually performed without any anesthesia usage. In rare cases, anesthesia may be given for the patient’s comfort.

After embryo transfer, the chances of a successful pregnancy depend on a variety of factors. These include – the quality of the embryo, the age and health of the woman, the timing of the transfer, endometrial receptivity, the technique used for embryo transfer, and the location in the uterine cavity where the embryo is transferred.

The Different Types of Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer can be categorized into different types depending on two factors – the stage when it is placed into the uterus and the number of embryo(s) to be placed. Let us have a closer look at all the types based on these factors. Remember, each type of embryo transfer offers unique benefits and is ideal for different purposes. Hence, depending on your fertility goals, your doctor will suggest the best IVF embryo transfer for you. If you want to ensure a successful pregnancy a few years later as a woman, you also have the option of Egg Oocyte Freezing.

Stage (or Time) of Transfer

Depending on when the embryo is transferred, this process has four different types:

Fresh Embryo Transfer

Fresh Embryo Transfer refers to the process in which the placement of the embryo(s) occurs shortly after the egg and sperm retrieval is done and they are fertilized in vitro. Sometimes, if the specialists feel the need for it, a procedure called magnetic activated cell sorting is performed on the sperm sample.

The embryo is then placed in the uterus of either the biological mother or a surrogate, with the hope that it will be implanted successfully. This is done within three to five days of the fertilization. In fresh embryo transfer, the retrieval and transfer are done in the same cycle.

This is one of the quickest embryo transfer methods because it eliminates the time required for growth or freezing. Depending upon your medical history, your doctor will tell you about the necessary precautions after embryo transfer in IVF that you need to take.

Frozen Embryo Transfer

In a frozen embryo transfer, embryos are frozen after fertilization from a previous IVF and stored until a future cycle. Further, when the patient is prepared for the transfer, the embryo is thawed and placed into the uterus by the experts.

The best part of frozen embryo transfer is the flexibility it offers. Suppose the woman’s body is not in the right condition for implantation when the in vitro fertilization is done. In this case, the cryopreservation technique ensures that this embryo is kept safe until it is time to use it. With the advanced freezing techniques used in today’s times, the quality of the frozen embryos is not impacted.

FET (frozen embryo transfer) is done because of one of the following reasons: 

• Sometimes, the uterus of the intended mother is not in the optimum state for implantation due to many reasons, like a shorter luteal phase. In such women, the doctors have to wait for the right conditions. Till then, the embryo is kept frozen. 
• In one IVF cycle, multiple high-quality embryos are available for transfer. Not all of these are used. If the patient is planning another pregnancy in the future, they can choose the frozen embryo transfer technique. 
• Now, suppose the first transfer fails, and the couple wishes to try again. In this case as well, the previously frozen and preserved embryos can be used for a “second transfer”. 
• Sometimes, the woman has a higher number of eggs collected in a particular cycle. In such cases, to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation, the embryos are frozen and then transferred after a break.

Cleavage Embryo Transfer

In their cleavage stage, the size of the embryos remains the same while their cells are dividing or cleaving (hence, the name). This happens on the third day after fertilization, which is why these embryos are also called “day 3 embryos”. To improve the chances of the embryo thriving in the uterus, it is transferred into the uterus at this stage. The decision to perform a cleavage stage transfer will be your doctor’s, who will assess your health and fertility factors.

Sometimes, to improve the chances of success, the embryoscope is also used, which facilitates an advanced observation of the embryos from the time of fertilization to the time when it is transferred to the uterus.

Blastocyst Embryo Transfer

Blastocyst embryo transfer is a procedure in which the embryo transfer occurs at a much later stage, i.e., on the fifth or sixth day after the fertilization is done (through the IVF technique). By day 5, the embryo has progressed to become a rapidly growing blastocyst. This explains why this type of transfer is called blastocyst embryo transfer, Day 5 embryo transfer, or blastocyst culture and transfer.

At this stage, the structure of the embryo has become more complex. A mature blastocyst is known to comprise approximately 200 to 300 cells, which are divided into two layers. The role of the outer layer of cells is nourishment and protection. They are called trophoblast cells, which later form the placenta. The inner mass of cells will form the fetus if this embryo is successfully implanted.

The primary advantage of a blastocyst transfer is that the embryologist will only pick the embryo that shows the highest potential for future development and is genetically excellent as well. Embryo transfer procedure done at this stage has many other benefits, such as improved chances of implantation, better success rate for live birth, and reduced possibility of miscarriage.

Number of Embryo(s):

Depending on the quantity of embryos transferred, this process has two different types:

Single Embryo Transfer (SET or eSET)

SET (Single Embryo Transfer) or eSET (Elective Single Embryo Transfer) has emerged as the gold standard for doctors who provide IVF treatment. This is the kind in which only one embryo is transferred to the uterus of the mother. The primary reason why this kind of embryo transfer is preferred is to eradicate the chances of more than one pregnancy.

Multiple Embryo Transfer

Multiple embryo transfer involves placing two or more embryos into the uterus during the IVF procedure. Multiple embryo transfer is restricted at most of the centers. Patients are usually advised to consult with their fertility specialists to understand the legal guidelines associated with the same.

What to Expect from Your Embryo Transfer Procedure: Before, During, and After

Embryo transfer is a critical step in the journey of becoming parents with the help of in vitro fertilization. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure will help you stay calm and positive about the entire procedure.

2 to 3 days before the transfer (sometimes 5, depending on the stage in which the embryo is to be transferred to your uterus), egg retrieval will take place. On the other hand, depending on your condition, the sperm will either be collected from the male partner on the same day or will be thawed (if it was frozen). These will then undergo fertilization in a state-of-the-art laboratory.

On the day of the IVF embryo transfer, you are required to take all your oral medications as prescribed. It is important to note that any vaginally-insertable medication should not be taken on this day. If you have any queries about the same, the best idea is to get in touch with your doctor.

Just before the transfer, you will have to confirm your name, date of birth, and other necessary details with your doctor and embryologist for identification. The expert embryologist will then load the sample into a transfer catheter. Simultaneously, your doctor will place a speculum in your vagina. The purpose of this is to provide a clear visualization of your cervix. Further, the cervix is cleaned. Once all this is done, under the guidance of ultrasound, the specialist will then enter the catheter through your cervix. The embryo will then be gently placed into your uterus.

After embryo transfer, the patient is given some privacy for 15 to 20 minutes, during which they can rest and relax. Then, the doctor will schedule scans (ultrasound) and blood tests as and when they think it is necessary. Two weeks after the transfer, a pregnancy test can be conducted.

Signs After Embryo Transfer

After an embryo transfer, it is important that you look out for signs that the treatment has worked for you. Understanding the positive signs after embryo transfer (and the negative ones as well) is important and will help you a lot.

Positive Signs After Embryo Transfer

The positive signs you will notice after embryo transfer include:

These are all signs that the procedure is going to be successful. However, sometimes, even with these signs, a woman may not be pregnant. On the contrary, it is also possible that a woman may be pregnant and still not have any of these symptoms.

Some women are asymptomatic as well. So, in case you see no symptoms after embryo transfer, before you start stressing out, talk to your healthcare provider. They will offer compassionate support so that the uncertainty doesn’t make you anxious.

After Embryo Transfer Day By Day Symptoms: A Day-Wise Guide to Understanding the Changes

Now, let us understand what happens to your body after embryo transfer day by day.

Day 1 to Day 3 

In the first three days after the embryo transfer is done, you will start experiencing certain symptoms. However, these will be very mild. Let us first understand what happens to the fertilized egg during these days. It divides (the cells multiply) and approaches the uterus for implantation. This is a very preliminary phase in the growth process.

The after IVF embryo transfer pregnancy symptoms you will experience include the following:

Symptom	Reason
Mild Cramping	The embryo is implanted into the uterine lining during this phase.
Fatigue	There will be many hormonal changes in the body.
Light Spotting or Vaginal Discharge	During the transfer, some irritation is caused to the cervix.
Mood Swings	You are under a lot of stress and feel anxious thinking about the success of the IVF procedure.

It is crucial to remember that every patient’s experience after embryo transfer will be variable. This is because each of our bodies is different. Of course, if you experience any unusual signs, make sure to contact your IVF expert and seek their advice immediately.

Day 4 to Day 6

During this phase, the embryo develops and reaches the uterus. As the days pass, the symptoms become more evident. This is the phase where the body starts adapting to the changes caused by the IVF embryo transfer procedure.

The symptoms you will notice during this stage include the following:

Symptom	Reason
Cramping	Embryo implants further into the lining of your uterus.
Increased Frequency of Urination	Increased levels of hormones in the body.
Breast Tenderness	Hormonal changes occur in the body.
Constipation	Because of the hormonal changes, in addition to the progesterone supplements prescribed by your doctor.

From this point on, it is essential to keep an eye on all your symptoms and discuss them with the doctor.

Day 7 to Day 9

The 7 days after embryo transfer symptoms start surfacing as the embryo establishes its presence in your womb. At this point in time, placenta formation also begins. After maturation, the purpose of the placenta is to provide nutrients and oxygen to the growing fetus.

Let us have a look at the different symptoms you will be able to observe between day 7 and day 9 after the embryo transfer:

Symptom	Reason
Bleeding	Embryo development in the uterine lining occurs during this stage.
Nausea Bloating Sore Nipples Headaches	Because of the hormonal fluctuations occurring in your body.

If you notice an absence of the 8 days after embryo transfer symptoms listed in the table above or observe any additional symptoms that you find anomalous, talk to your IVF specialist about the same.

Day 10 to Day 12

The development will catch a faster pace during this stage. This will mean an increase in the production of hormones as well. Some women even get a 10 days after embryo transfer period pains experience.

The different 10 days after embryo transfer symptoms that are normal are:

Symptom	Reason
Mild Cramping	Your uterus is stretching itself and growing to create a space for the embryo.
More Hunger More Thrist	Because of the increase in the hormonal levels in your body.
Fatigue	Hormonal changes are occurring rapidly in the body. Furthermore, the physical demands are also increasing.
Mood Swings	Emotional ups and downs are caused by the changes occurring, as well as the stress.

These day 12 after embryo transfer symptoms are usual and can be found in most women.

Many women try to take an 11 days after embryo transfer pregnancy test. This is not at all a good idea because it may show a false negative. This is not the right stage for the pregnancy to be detected, especially through an at-home pregnancy test kit.

Day 13 and Day 14

Day 13 and day 14 are when you will feel the most anxious. This is because the two-week-long waiting period for getting a definitive answer is close to ending. If the process is successful, the body produces all the hormones necessary for supporting your pregnancy.

The common symptoms you can experience during these two days are:

Symptom	Reason
Breast Changes	Severe hormonal changes in the body.
Increased Fatigue	Pregnancy is known to be very demanding on the woman’s body. Hormonal changes also occur during this phase.
Nausea Vomiting	The early stages of pregnancy are known to cause these symptoms.
Positive Pregnancy Test	This happens on the 14th or 15th day after the embryo transfer procedure. Consulting your doctor for the same is always an excellent idea.

It is observed that the hCG levels 15 days after embryo transfer are very high, i.e., between 300 to 500 mIU/mL. This is the perfect window to get a pregnancy test done and avoid false results.

Tips for Improving the Success Rate After Embryo Transfer 

If you want to ensure the best success rates, there are some after embryo transfer precautions and tips you need to keep in mind. There are: 

• Take a day off and get as much rest as possible after the embryo transfer procedure has been carried out. 
• Take all the medication as prescribed by your healthcare expert. 
• Choose the best 
• Ask your doctor which sleeping position after embryo transfer is the best for you. 
• Stay active, but don’t over-exhaust yourself. 
• Abstain from sexual intercourse as recommended by your doctor. 
• Stick to a high-fat and low-carb diet.

Medications, Surgeries, and Therapies Before Embryo Transfer

Before the embryo transfer procedure is started, your doctor will make sure to give you a better shot at success through various ways. These include medications, surgeries, and therapies as well. 

Medications Prescribed:

Your doctor will prescribe some excellent immunological medications to you. Some of these include: 

Surgeries and Procedures Associated With Embryo Transfer:

Surgical treatments and immune therapies may also be necessary, depending on your case. Some examples include:

Holistic Therapies Recommended:

In addition to the above options, many holistic modes have also proved to be effective in improving your chances of getting pregnant. These include: 

• Yoga
• Acupuncture
• Massage

State-of-the-Art Embryo Transfer Equipment and the Best Doctor: Available at Bloom IVF

At Bloom IVF, we utilize state-of-the-art embryo transfer equipment and the most advanced techniques. Our goal is to ensure the highest precision so that the best success rates are possible. From ultrasound imaging to culture laboratories, every facility at IVF is premium. This is what makes us the best center in the country for IVF embryo transfer treatments. 

Our team of expert doctors brings years of experience to the table, which is helpful in making your fertility journey successful and comfortable. With a commitment to personalized care and dedication to ensuring the best possible outcome for each of our patients, Bloom IVF stands tall as the most trusted IVF and fertility treatment center in India.

Take the Right Step to Achieve Your Parenthood Dreams – Call Bloom IVF Now!