Embryo transfer is a procedure that follows in vitro fertilization IVF. This is the simplest and final step for in vitro  fertilization. It is done to facilitate conception after fertilization from the in vitro fertilization procedure.

When does embryo transfer procedure occur ?

The embryos are usually transferred  to the woman’s uterus at the 2 – 8 cell stage. They may be transferred anytime  between day 1 and 6 after the eggs are retrieved. However it is usually between days  2 to 4. Some hospital are now transferring the eggs on day 5 which is the blastocysts  stage.

How is embryo transfer done ?

It is done in the clinic. Anesthesia is usually not given but a sedative may be given. They physician uses the help of an ultrasound to guide the transfer.

A fine transfer catheter is loaded with a predetermined number of embryos . This is then passed to the vagina and cervix into the uterus.

The embryos are deposited into the uterus . The patient is then made to rest on her back for about 4 to 6 hours in the recovery room. The couple wait for early sign of pregnancy to indicate that the process was successful.

After the embryo, the woman will continue taking progesterone. Progesterone increases your chances of getting pregnant and is also vital in maintaining pregnancy.

Once pregnancy is confirmed and producing adequate amounts of progesterone on its own, the medication is then stopped.

What are the risk of embryo transfer ?

The risk associated with this procedure is minimal. Some of the risk include the loss of the embryos during the transfer as well as placing the embryos in the wrong place such as the fallopian tubes.

Some women experience mild cramping which is usually painless.

What do you do after an embryo transfer process

There is nothing the patient can do to influence the outcome . There is no document that shows that bed rest or continuing with  normal activities will make a difference.

Some women opt to take it easy while others with continue normal activities.

How many embryos are transferred ?

This is up for debate. Some experts believe transferring not more than 4 embryos should yield optimal results. Transferring more than 4  eggs  may increase the excess number of pregnancies and lead to other complications. Transferring 4  embryos instead of just one or two increases the likelihood of pregnancy.