Frozen Embryo Transfer
Frozen Embryo Transfer -– Maximizing IVF Efficiency
In vitro fertilization is a highly effective fertility treatment, but it is not uncommon for more than one cycle to be performed before pregnancy occurs. One of the ways we can ease the physical, financial, and emotional burden of undergoing multiple IVF cycles is through the use of cryopreserved, or frozen, embryos. Frozen embryo transfer, available at our Florida practice in the Fort Lauderdale area, can be used in subsequent IVF cycles when the initial cycle is unsuccessful, or be performed years later when the patient is ready to have another child.
Monitoring
During IVF cycles in which previously frozen embryos will be used, the ovulation induction and egg retrieval phases are not performed. For this reason, these cycles are significantly less expensive and involve fewer stages than the initial, traditional cycle. However, it is still necessary to closely monitor, or even control, the progression of the menstrual cycle. Because the frozen embryo transfer procedure must take place at precisely the time when conception would naturally occur, frequent ultrasounds and blood tests will be performed during the first 10 to 15 days of the cycle.
Frozen Embryo Transfer
When the cycle has reached the correct stage, two to four frozen embryos will be selected and thawed. The frozen embryo transfer procedure takes place in exactly the same way as a fresh embryo transfer. A thin catheter is inserted into the uterus through the cervix. The embryos are then introduced into the uterine cavity through this tube. The procedure takes very little time and there is minimal discomfort.
Chances of Success
Roughly 70 percent of embryos survive the freezing and thawing process. However, once thawing is complete and the healthy embryos are selected, the chance of successful implantation and pregnancy after frozen embryo transfer is about equal to that of a fresh transfer procedure.
Contact Our Southeast Florida Practice in Fort Lauderdale
If you would like to learn more about frozen embryo transfer please contact us in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida region to schedule a consultation.
