What Is a Fresh Embryo Transfer and Why Is It Done?
A fresh Embryo transfer is a procedure used in in-vitro-fertilization (IVF) where embryos are transferred to the uterus shortly after fertilization, without being frozen first. In this process, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized in a lab. The resulting embryos are then cultured for a few days, usually reaching the blastocyst stage (around day 5), before being placed into the patient's uterus to implant and initiate pregnancy. This approach contrasts with a frozen embryo transfer (FET), where embryos are cryopreserved and transferred at a later date. Fresh embryo transfers are often performed as part of a continuous IVF cycle, where the timing of hormone stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer are closely coordinated.
Fresh embryo transfers are done to give embryos the opportunity to implant immediately after fertilization, which some clinics prefer when the patient has a favorable endometrial (uterine lining) environment. For patients without significant hormonal imbalances or risks of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a fresh transfer may be more efficient, eliminating the need for freezing and thawing embryos. While fresh and frozen transfers each have unique advantages, the choice largely depends on individual factors such as hormone levels, uterine lining condition, and overall health. A fertility specialist will assess these variables and recommend the best approach to maximize the chances of a successful pregnancy.
