Transferring the embryo into the uterus is one of the most important steps in IVF treatment. In simple terms, it can be described as the transfer of the embryo through a thin cannula through the cervix into the uterus. The procedure is short, usually painless and is performed in the transfer room against a backdrop of relaxing music. During the transfer, you can watch a video recording of the transfer of the selected embryo and your partner can also be present during the procedure.
Embryos are ideally introduced into the uterus at the blastocyst stage. This is the 5th-6th day after the eggs have been fertilized by sperm. One option is to perform a 'fresh transfer’; the other option is to freeze these embryos and transfer them in the next cycle (cryoembryo transfer – CET). It is the second option that we prefer at Repromeda.
Acupuncture is a suitable complement before and after the transfer. Before the transfer, you will be pleasantly attuned and your pelvic area will be relaxed, making it easier to insert the embryo. After the transfer, acupuncture is used to stimulate the circulation of blood to the uterus, which promotes nutrition and facilitates the proper development of the embryo. In addition, you will find it nice and relaxing.
What if the embryo attachment repeatedly fails?
It may happen that, despite a series of tests showing that nothing is preventing the embryo from attaching, it repeatedly fails to attach. The problem may be caused by a uterine lining that may not be sufficiently prepared for the transfer. The beReady or EndomeTRIO test can help you with this.
- Based on an analysis of a uterine swab sample, the beREADY test determines your individual implantation window and thus the optimal time for the transfer of the embryo.
- The EndomeTRIO test performs three tests simultaneously from a single sample of the uterine mucosa. In addition to determining the implantation window, it also analyses the bacterial balance of the endometrium and detects bacteria causing chronic inflammation.
- A special culture medium called EmbryoGlue can help increase the chances of embryo nesting and subsequent pregnancy. This medium is formulated to mimic the conditions in a woman’s uterus while acting as a “glue”. EmbryoGlue contains all the nutrients needed for optimal embryo development and facilitates attachment to the uterine wall during transfer.
Most frequently asked questions
Why do you prefer cryoembryo transfer or CET in Repromeda?
The main reason is the higher treatment success rate. Why is that? The timing of the transfer to the woman’s next natural cycle, which is no longer burdened by hormonal stimulation (necessary for egg retrieval), increases the success rate. In the following cycles, we are usually able to ensure that the uterine lining is better prepared to receive the embryo. Another reason is the use of preimplantation genetic testing of embryos, which we now perform on most of our patients. In this case, CET is the only option for time reasons. During the delayed transfer, we examine the embryos in our genetic laboratory. In the following cycle, we transfer the most promising embryos.
Is embryo transfer painful?
For most women, this is a painless outpatient procedure. In some women, the cervix may be narrowed because of a developmental defect of the uterus or as a result of inflammation or surgery. In this case, the transfer may be slightly uncomfortable.
Why do you transfer only one embryo during embryo transfer at Repromeda?
Because we know that transferring two or more embryos does not increase the likelihood of pregnancy; it only increases the likelihood of multiple pregnancy. By transferring one embryo, we prevent multiple pregnancies, which pose a risk to both the woman and the children. We are very happy that the average number of transferred embryos in our clinic is 1.0. Our goal is not only to get you pregnant, but also to see a healthy baby in your arms. This is the only way we ourselves can be satisfied with our work.
Can I have twins after a single embryo transfer?
With a single embryo transfer, multiple pregnancies can only occur in cases of identical twins resulting from the division of the original single transferred embryo.
How likely am I to get pregnant?
The probability of pregnancy after the transfer of one PGT-tested embryo is up to 58%. In most cycles, however, more viable embryos are obtained. Approximately 7 out of 10 couples only need one IVF cycle to achieve pregnancy. During 4 IVF cycles 99% of couples get pregnant.
