Whether a fresh embryo transfer or frozen results in better success is one of the most hotly debated topics among the reproductive medicine community. And while frozen transfers have shown to have a statistical edge, fresh embryo transfers remain a popular option around the world.

After your egg retrieval, your clinic will determine if a fresh embryo transfer is recommended based on several factors; the amount of embryos fertilized, estrogen and progesterone levels, and the health of your uterus (thickness and shape of your uterine lining, is fluid present, etc).

Fresh transfers can occur on day 2, 3 or day 5 (Blastocysts) depending on the development of your embryos. *Link to embryo related article here*

Prepping For Your Fresh  Embryo Transfer:

One day post egg retrieval you’ll begin a fresh transfer prep protocol that usually includes estrogen and progesterone supplementation. These medications can be taken orally, via a patch, suppositories or injections. 

Fresh embryo transfers often require a higher amount of progesterone medication due to the fact that the corpus litmus isn’t able to secrete progesterone since the egg retrieval eliminates it. 

If you have autoimmune factors, your protocol may include blood thinners and/or steroids.

The Day of Your Fresh Embryo Transfer:

You’ll be asked to arrive at your clinic with a full bladder (drinking up to 1 liter of water). You’ll get checked in, change into your medical gown, and asked to identify yourself and the Embryo. 

Your Embryo(s) are placed in a catheter, and inserted through your cervix into your uterus under ultrasound guidance. The procedure itself is usually painless and doesn’t take more than a few minutes. 

Post Fresh Embryo Transfer:

You’ll continue to take your medication protocol and be given an official pregnancy test date. Some clinics will require a BETA Hcg blood test and others (mostly in the UK) will ask you to confirm the cycle’s outcome via a home pregnancy test. 

In the Embie app you’re able to create an embryo report, schedule your transfer, track your medication protocol, and enter the results of your cycle all in one convenient place.