Embryo transfer

Embryo transfer may be performed fresh after egg retrieval or later as a frozen-embryo transfer. A frozen transfer can be timed to a natural ovulatory cycle or supported with medication. In natural cycles, the optimal day may occasionally fall on a weekend, preventing transfer that cycle.

The procedure is done under ultrasound guidance. The patient is asked to arrive with a full bladder to improve visibility. A thin transfer catheter is passed into the uterus and the embryo is placed in the uterine cavity. The procedure is usually painless and normal daily activity and work can generally resume afterwards.

A pregnancy test is performed approximately two weeks after the transfer.