Embryo transfer (ET)
Failure to conceive at childbearing age is a serious medical problem. However, thanks to modern techniques, the chances of couples for successful treatment are significantly increased. One of the most effective assisted reproductive technologies is in vitro fertilization, available at MS Dobrobut clinics. The final IVF procedure is embryotransfer (ET).
Embryotransfer is the transfer of an embryo into the uterus of the future mother. Before the procedure, the couple must undergo a comprehensive examination and pre-treatment, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, sperm preparation, fertilization and culturing. After that, all that is left to do is to wait for the result.
Types of Embryotransfer
Two types of ET are available:
Fresh embryo transfer
The advantage of this method is the minimal time to conception. After the stage of egg retrieval from the ovary and fertilization, it takes a few days to transfer and 2-3 weeks to get the final result.
The disadvantage is the slow growth of the endometrium due to the hormones used to stimulate ovulation and egg retrieval. Thus, the best chances for the success of the procedure when the endometrium reaches a thickness of 7-8 mm.
Transfer of a frozen (cryopreserved) embryo, previously subjected to thawing
One of the advantages of this type of embryotransfer is that it can be set aside for any length of time. Thawing occurs when the endometrium is mature. Postponing the procedure avoids the unsynchronization of the age of the embryo and the readiness of the endometrium. Also an advantage is the possibility of preimplantation genetic diagnosis, which allows you to choose a high-quality embryo without genetic anomalies.
The minus of the method is the higher cost. However, several embryos are usually frozen, which allows you to repeat the attempt in case of failure or if over time the woman wants to get pregnant again.
Transferring a 3-day and a 5-day embryo: what is the difference
When deciding on the number of embryos, the doctor's recommendations and the individual characteristics of the partners should be taken into account. If one is transferred, the probability of pregnancy is less than if two. Therefore, most couples choose 2 embryos.
Transfer of the embryo into the uterus occurs on the 3rd or 5th day after fertilization of the egg. For a successful embiotransfer, it is better to have at least four and preferably eight cells. At the stage when the mother and father cells fuse, a zygote is formed, whose cells begin to divide.
On day 3, eight cells come out. If the number of embryos is limited, it is worth planting them on the 3rd day, because only one third survive until the 5th day.
On the 5th day, the zygote becomes a blastocyst, and the number of cells is already several dozen. Transferring embryos at this stage allows you to choose the best quality embryos, which increases the chances of artificial insemination.
How is the transfer of embryos into the uterine cavity during IVF
Embryo transfer: preparation
Special preparation for embryo transfer is not required. The woman should only refrain from going to the toilet immediately before the procedure for better visualization of the bladder.
Course of embryotransfer
Embryo transfer in IVF occurs as follows:
- the woman is placed on a gynecologic chair;
- under ultrasound control, the doctor determines the length of the cervical canal;
- a special catheter connected to a piston, where one or more embryos are placed, is inserted into the uterus;
- with the help of ultrasound, the reproductologist selects the optimal place and, pressing the piston, releases them into the uterus;
- then the catheter is checked whether all the embryos are inside and carefully removed.
Manipulation is absolutely painless, so it is carried out without the use of anesthesia. Together with preparation and rest of the woman, the procedure lasts about 2 hours.
What happens after embryotransfer, and when to diagnose pregnancy
Usually there are no special sensations after embryo transfer or discomfort. In some cases, there is a slight bloody discharge, which can last from a few hours to a few days. In general, a woman is recommended to lead a quiet life for some time after the procedure.
The stage of embryo engraftment comes approximately on the 7th day. Two weeks after embryotransfer, a woman should take a blood test to determine pregnancy.
Infertility is not a verdict. Thanks to modern reproductive technologies, the possibility of pregnancy and the birth of healthy children is real. Trust the professionals of the medical network "Dobrobut" and get a comprehensive consultation on estracorporeal fertilization.
