Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): A Safe IVF Option
The FET Process at City Fertility
FET is a simple and painless procedure with most people saying it is similar discomfort to that of having a pap smear.
Step 1. Prepare for a FET cycle
Your fertility specialist will arrange a personalised cycle plan for your FET. Depending on your cycle type, you may need to take medications to prepare the lining of your uterus (endometrium) to maximise the chance of pregnancy.
Step 2. Embryo Thaw
On the day of your transfer, your embryo is removed from liquid nitrogen storage and carefully thawed. This process takes around 10 minutes and involves rehydrating the embryo and allowing it some time to recover before transfer. Before your transfer our embryologist will share a special moment with you, showing you a photo of your embryo.
Step 3. Embryo Transfer
Your embryo is transferred into the uterus using a fine plastic tube (transfer catheter). Typically, only one embryo is transferred. If more than one embryo is to be transferred, this must be discussed with your fertility specialist prior to the transfer taking place. An embryo transfer is a relatively quick procedure and discomfort should be minimal.
Step 4. Pregnancy Test
Two weeks after your FET, your pregnancy test will be due. Many people find this to be the most difficult time to endure. You will be encouraged to limit your activity for 24 hours after the embryo transfer, eat well, stay hydrated and keep busy while you wait for your pregnancy blood test.
Next Steps
City Fertility have helped thousands of individuals and couples to become parents, and we would love to help you. Our fertility specialists will create a personalised treatment plan and guide you through every step of your IVF journey. With 18 IVF clinics, 50 consulting locations and over 60 specialists around Australia there is a City Fertility specialist to help you.
FAQs
01 How are embryos stored, and for how long?
Embryos are stored using a process called vitrification, a rapid freezing technique that prevents ice crystals from forming and damaging the cells. Once frozen, they are placed in special straws and safely kept in tanks containing liquid nitrogen at extremely low temperatures (around –196°C). At this temperature, embryos remain suspended in time and can be stored safely for years.
02 Is FET less stressful or more flexible than fresh transfer?
Many patients find a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) less stressful and more flexible than a fresh transfer. Unlike fresh cycles, FET doesn’t involve ovarian stimulation or egg collection, making it gentler on the body. It also allows your fertility specialist to carefully time the transfer for the optimal stage in your cycle.
03 What happens on the day of transfer?
An embryo is thawed prior to transfer to allow time for it to recover. Patients will be advised to have a couple of glasses of water to have a comfortably full bladder before the thawed embryo is placed into the uterus with a fine catheter. The procedure is generally quick and feels like a Pap smear.
04 How soon can I take a pregnancy test after FET?
Between 10 and 14 days after the FET, you will be due for a pregnancy test. Testing too early may give a false result because the hormone that indicates pregnancy, called hCG needs time to build up to detectable levels.
05 Can I use embryos frozen years ago?
Yes! Embryos can safely remain in storage for multiple years. In fact, embryos that have been stored for decades have been successfully transferred in recent times.
06 Are there risks or side effects with FET?
Blastocyst vitrification thawing survival rates are >90%. Unfortunately, there are occasions where your embryo may not survive. If you have other embryos in storage, we may thaw another embryo to ensure the transfer can proceed (depending on your consent and individual circumstances). After the procedure, you may have spotting, light bleeding or cramping. You should contact your clinic or clinician if you experience heavy bleeding or severe pain.
Every IVF journey is different.
That’s why our team of specialists, scientists and nurses are here to provide personalised care and answer your questions at every stage.