What is Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)?
The procedure for Frozen-thawed Embryo Transfer (FET) is similar to the procedure for fresh embryo transfer. First, the embryos are thawed. Next, the consultant loads a catheter with the embryos. Transvaginal ultrasound is used to guide the placement of the catheter through the cervix and into the uterus.
How does it work?
The first thing you need to do is discuss a thaw plan with one of our embryologists. The plan will depend on the number of embryos you have in storage, your medical history, your age, the number of embryos which you could have transferred and your own wishes. Once you have decided what you would like to do your treatment is planned by one of our fertility nurses.
The treatment cycle involves using drugs to suppress the natural activity of the ovaries followed by preparation of the endometrium with oestrogen tablets. If your endometrium shows a suitable response to the hormones we add in a second hormone to mature the endometrium. You would normally have two scans during the treatment. The embryologists will thaw the embryos in accordance with your plan, and then you are ready for the transfer to take place.
Who is it suitable for?
If after a fresh IVF treatment cycle you have embryos that have been frozen (cryo-preserved), you can decide to use these in a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) cycle. If you have had embryos created and frozen due to a past medical condition or due to concerns about your age then a Frozen Embryo Transfer cycle might be the next appropriate step for you. We also welcome patients who have had embryos created and frozen at other clinics who wish to move their embryos to Salisbury Fertility Centre to complete a Frozen Embryo Transfer cycle with us.
Frozen embryos from a previous fresh IVF are thawed and then transferred back into the woman’s uterus
Salisbury Fertility Centre Treatments
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