A frozen embryo transfer may be recommended in several circumstances - including embryos stored from a previous IVF cycle and those requiring pre-implantation genetic testing.
A frozen embryo transfer is where an embryo that has previously been frozen is safely thawed and placed in the uterus of the expectant birth parent.
Freezing embryos from a previous IVF cycle enables you to try for another pregnancy later on without needing to have another egg retrieval.
A frozen embryo transfer can take place during both a natural or hormone-regulated cycle. A hormone-regulated cycle involves taking medication to temporarily stop the function of your ovaries and thicken the lining of your uterus ready for implantation.
We may recommend a frozen embryo transfer if you:
Had a previous IVF cycle and were able to freeze healthy embryos for later use
Froze your embryos for medical or personal reasons and are now ready to use them
Froze your embryos whilst awaiting the results of your pre-implantation genetic testing
You need a break in treatment due to the effects of the hormone medication
A typical frozen embryo transfer will follow one of two regimens dependent on your past medical history, cycle lengths and prior fertility history.
1. Consultation
The first step of the frozen embryo transfer process is to have a review appointment with your consultant.
Together, we'll review your history and assess your menstrual cycle to decide whether your frozen embryo transfer will take place in a natural or hormone-regulated cycle.
2. Fertility tests and scans
If a significant amount of time has passed since freezing your embryos, we'll need to assess your uterine anatomy and endometrial thickness to help determine your treatment pathway.
However, if you've recently had an unsuccessful cycle, the time to transfer will be reduced.
3. Hormone medication
If you're having a hormone-regulated frozen embryo transfer, you'll first take oral oestrogen tablets and have a course of injections between days 2-6 of your cycle to suppress ovulation. With a natural cycle, we'll monitor your menstrual cycle and endometrial thickness to time transfer for when you ovulate.
4. Day of transfer
On the day of your frozen embryo transfer, you'll be asked to arrive at the clinic with a full bladder. Our embryology team will have thawed your embryo/s depending on quality ready for transfer to take place.
5. Embryo transfer
The embryo/s will be transferred into the uterus using a soft transfer catheter which is passed through the cervix and into the uterine cavity.
The process usually takes less five minutes and you will not need to wait around following your appointment.
The cost of your frozen embryo transfer will largely depend on whether you're having a natural or hormone-regulated cycle transfer. However, you will find a breakdown of a typical frozen embryo transfer below.
*Any medication you require throughout your treatment will be an additional cost. **All prices are subject to a regional variation.
Consultation
ÂŁ265
No charge if immediately following unsuccessful cycle
Medication - Starting from
ÂŁ350
If required
Frozen embryo transfer
ÂŁ2,760
Includes embryo thaw, culture and transfer
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Our team is here to provide clear pricing details and answer any questions about frozen embryo transfers. Contact us to plan your next steps with confidence.
Frozen embryo transfer FAQs
Speak to our patient support team for advice about your options and to book your first consultation with a fertility expert.