You are ready for the next phase of your treatment: the embryo transfer. Whether it’s a fresh or a frozen transfer, there are some important steps to be aware of. Please read the following information, and feel free to reach out to your Primary Care Nurse if you have additional questions.
Fresh vs Frozen Embryo Transfer
Patients can have a “Fresh Embryo Transfer” or a “Frozen Embryo Transfer”. Many patients will complete an egg retrieval and have all their embryos frozen to be used at a later date. Whether you’re having a fresh embryo transfer or a frozen embryo transfer, the process of transferring embryos to the uterus is the same.
For a fresh embryo transfer, you will return to the clinic three to five days after your egg retrieval. You will be notified of the exact time of your procedure the day before and given instructions.
For a frozen embryo transfer, you will be given a date for your transfer following your “Frozen Embryo Transfer” monitored cycle.
During the Embryo Transfer Procedure
The embryo transfer is performed in the same Procedure Room as the egg retrieval.
An embryo transfer takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
You must have a full bladder for this procedure.
You will be assisted onto the bed. The doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina and clean the cervix. The doctor will then introduce a catheter through your cervix. This is an outer sheath, through which the catheter holding your embryos will be guided.
The embryologist will load the embryo(s) into the inner catheter and then hand it through the window between the lab and the procedure room to the nurse, and the nurse will hand the catheter to your doctor.
The catheter is gently inserted through the cervix into the uterus. You may experience some cramping. The doctor will wait for the cramping to stop before releasing the embryo(s) into the uterus.
Once the embryos have been released, the doctor waits for two full minutes before removing the catheter. This is to allow the embryo(s) and the fluid to move away from the catheter. The catheter is then handed back to the embryologist who will check under the microscope to make sure the embryo(s) were released.
After the Embryo Transfer Procedure
You will be assisted to the Recovery Room where you will sit and relax for 30 minutes before going home.
There are no restrictions on eating or drinking at this time. Be sure to relax for the rest of the day after having an embryo transfer.
You are to continue with the Progesterone suppositories, Progesterone in Oil, or Endometrin as instructed. If you get your period, please call the clinic and come in for a pregnancy test to confirm your results. Do not stop this medication until you have the results of your pregnancy test. If you are pregnant, you will continue to use the medication as instructed.
A pregnancy test is done 10-12 days after the day of the embryo transfer.
You have been through a lot to make it to this point, and we want you to have the best possible experience for your embryo transfer. Please do not hesitate to contact your Primary Care Nurse if you have any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions: During the Embryo Transfer
Is the embryo transfer like the egg retrieval?
No. The embryo transfer is less invasive. You will not be given any medication or have an IV started for the embryo transfer. An embryo transfer is similar to an Intrauterine Insemination.
Will my embryo fall out with the fluid?
When you sit upright after embryo transfer you may feel something wet, but it is only the culture media used to clean your cervix. Your embryos cannot fall out.
Frequently Asked Questions: After the Embryo Transfer
Can I empty my bladder right after my embryo transfer?
We recommend that you wait 10 to 15 minutes after your transfer.
How long should I stay after my transfer?
We recommend that you stay in the recovery area for 10 to 20 minutes after embryo transfer.
Can I go to work?
The day of the embryo transfer, plus an additional two days after transfer, we advise you not go to work. It is always advisable to talk to your own physician about this.
Should I be on complete bed rest after transfer?
We advise patients to limit their activity. It is always advisable to talk to your own physician about this.
When can I resume normal activities or exercising?
You can resume normal activities and exercise 3 days after the transfer. Avoid any vigorous activities involving a high heart rate.
When can I have intercourse after the transfer?
You can have intercourse 3 days after the transfer, or later as per your comfort level.
Are there specific foods or drinks to avoid?
Maintain a healthy diet and avoid alcohol consumption while trying to become pregnant.
Should I stop any essential oils or herbal medication after the transfer?
Only use herbal medications that you have discussed with your naturopath, as some of these can affect your hormones.
Can I get a facial, a massage or dye my hair?
Yes. However, you should ensure that you are in a well-ventilated area and avoid hair dyes containing ammonia.
Can I use a hot tub or sauna?
No. Please avoid the use of hot tubs and saunas.
Can I travel after the transfer?
Yes. Flights and long car rides are okay after a transfer.
When is the earliest I can do a home pregnancy test?
We recommend waiting until at least 10 days after your transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions: After a Positive Pregnancy Test
How many weeks pregnant am I at my first pregnancy test?
At the time of your first pregnancy test, you would be four weeks pregnant.
Why do I have to repeat my pregnancy test?
We want to make sure that the hCG level is rising appropriately. When you repeat the test after 48 hours the hCG level should double or be within 60% of doubling.
When is my first pregnancy ultrasound booked?
We book your first pregnancy ultrasound when you have your second beta hCG pregnancy test done.
When do I have my first ultrasound?
Your first pregnancy ultrasound is scheduled for when you are approximately 7 to 8 weeks pregnant. At this time the ultrasound should show a heartbeat. The fetus will be measured so that we can calculate the date you can expect to deliver.
Do I have to pay for the pregnancy ultrasound?
No. All pregnancy ultrasounds are covered by OHIP. Also, please note that pregnancy ultrasounds are done with a full bladder.
When am I referred to an obstetrician?
After reviewing your first pregnancy ultrasound with your TRIO physician, their office will send a referral to an obstetrician of your choice, or they can recommend one for you.
How long do I have to take the progesterone?
Progesterone is typically taken until the end of the 10th week of pregnancy. After your first pregnancy ultrasound, your TRIO physician will advise you about stopping progesterone.
Should I stop using the heating pad at the progesterone injection site because of the prolactin levels increasing after embryo transfer?
No. The heat is being applied locally on the injection site. It will not affect the prolactin level at all.
Frequently Asked Questions: After a Negative Pregnancy Test
Can I do a frozen cycle after I have a negative pregnancy test on my fresh cycle?
Please follow up with your physician about your next steps after receiving a negative result.