Procedure of IVF
Embryo Transfer
Embryo transfer takes place two to five days after oocyte collection and fertilization. During embryo transfer, embryos are transferred in the uterine cavity of the woman. Embryologists evaluate and select the best embryos to transfer.
When to transfer?
The day of embryo transfer is determined according to the number and morphology of available embryos.
How many embryos do we transfer?
The number of transferred embryos depends on woman’s age, embryo quality and stage of development.
Legislation in Greece permits the transfer of up to three embryos in women up to 40 years of age, and four embryos in women over 40.
The remaining embryos can be frozen and transferred in a subsequent cycle. It is proven that by reducing the number of transferred embryos we reduce multiple pregnancy rates and reduce problems that occur in multiple pregnancies.
Thus, we extensively discuss with couples before embryo transfer in order to restrict number of transferred embryos, mainly in young women that have very high implantation rates!
What is the procedure of Embryo Transfer?
When embryologists complete the embryo evaluation and selection, the embryos are aspirated in a special catheter and handed to the gynecologist. Gynecologist enters the catheter in the uterine cavity through the cervix and deposits its content under direct ultrasound-guidance.
This procedure is similar to the intrauterine insemination and is painless.
The transfer of embryos in the uterine cavity is always performed by means of a directly ultrasound-guided procedure to ensure the right position of the catheter in the intrauterine cavity. The use of ultrasounds in embryo transfer improves the results of assisted reproduction.
