Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

What tests should be done before the transfer?

At the patient's request the transfer can be performed under USG control. The patient is placed in the gynaecological position. The doctor inserts a catheter with the embryo(s) into the uterine cavity through the cervix and then gently injects it. The embryologist checks under the microscope that the catheter is empty to ensure that the embryos have entered the uterus. The patient remains in the gynaecological chair for another 10-15 minutes.

The day of transfer is determined based on embryological and clinical indications. The transfer may take place in the natural cycle or require prior pharmacological preparation of the patient. On the day of transfer, no deodorants, perfumes or cleaning products with strong scents should be used. It is advisable to drink a glass of liquid before transfer, as a half-full bladder facilitates transfer by straightening the uterus.

One, two, or in justified cases three embryos are selected for transfer. The aim is to achieve the highest possible pregnancy rate while minimising the risk of multiple pregnancies. In exceptional cases the number of foetuses may exceed the number of embryos transferred as a result of their spontaneous division in the body (e.g. even in the case of a single embryo transfer a twin pregnancy may occur).

Embryo transfer may be abandoned if morphological abnormalities are found which interfere with normal development.

Before the embryo transfer procedure laboratory tests for: anti-HIV-1,2, anti-HCV-Ab, VDRL, toxoplasmosis and Chlamydia trachomatis will be performed. In addition, a cytological examination, a vaginal cleansing examination and a rubella antibody test will be performed. In justified cases, the doctor may order additional tests.