IVF Procedure - Step Four: Embryo Transfer

The in vitro fertilization procedure involves four steps; it begins with ovulation induction to stimulate egg development. Next, egg harvesting is performed so your fertility specialist can extract eggs to be used during the insemination and fertilization process. Finally, your doctor will transfer viable embryos to the uterus.

Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. The physician uses a transfer catheter to carefully deposit the embryo or embryos into the uterine cavity. While the embryo transfer procedure takes only 10 to 20 minutes, some IVF clinics recommend that patients rest for a period of time immediately afterward.

After undergoing IVF, patients are given daily progesterone injections to increase the chance of successful embryo implantation. The success rate of the IVF procedure is approximately 20 percent per treatment cycle.

How Many Embryos Should You Transfer?

Patients who undergo the in vitro fertilization procedure should first consult with their doctor to determine the number of embryos that will be transferred. It is possible for more than one embryo to implant in the uterus lining (endometrium) after transfer. The more embryos transferred, the greater the chance of multiple pregnancies. An embryo or embryos that are not selected for immediate transfer may be frozen for use at a later date through a process known as cryopreservation.

Locate an IVF Specialist in Your City

DocShop can help you quickly and easily locate qualified in vitro fertilization specialists in your area. If you are interested in learning more about the in vitro fertilization procedure, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with an infertility specialist, use DocShop to obtain a list of IVF clinics in your area.