Embryo Transfer Day — What to Expect

Embryo transfer is the brief procedure placing developed embryo(s) into the uterus. Despite its medical simplicity, it carries emotional weight. This page covers preparation, the procedure, and post-transfer care.

1. Pre-transfer preparation

Mild bladder filling (helps visualise uterus on ultrasound). No fasting required. Comfortable clothing. Partner support welcome. Consultation with embryologist about embryo to be transferred (grade, day of development). Photos of embryo often provided. Confirmation of which embryo number. Identity verification.

2. Single vs double embryo transfer

Single embryo transfer standard for good prognosis patients. Reduces multiple pregnancy risks (preterm birth, low birth weight, maternal complications). Double embryo transfer in older patients, repeated failures, or specific situations. Discussion before transfer day. SET preferred by most international guidelines.

3. The procedure

Position in lithotomy. Speculum gentle insertion. Cervix cleansed. Ultrasound abdominal probe (full bladder helps imaging). Embryologist confirms identity of embryo loaded in transfer catheter. Catheter passes through cervical canal into upper uterine cavity under ultrasound guidance. Embryo deposited. Catheter removed. Inspected to confirm embryo successfully placed. Total time 5-10 minutes.

4. After the procedure

Brief rest in clinic 15-30 minutes (no evidence longer rest improves outcomes). Resume normal activities. Mild cramping possible. Slight spotting possible. No bed rest required. Studies show no benefit from extended rest. Mental and physical activity normal.

5. Luteal support

Progesterone (vaginal, injectable, or oral) continued from day of retrieval through 8-10 weeks of pregnancy if conception occurs. Sometimes estradiol added. Folic acid continues. Other prescribed medications maintained.

6. Activity guidance

Resume normal activities immediately. Walking, normal work, light household activities. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, hot baths, alcohol, smoking. Sexual intercourse — practitioners differ; many advise avoidance until pregnancy confirmation. Light to moderate activity has NOT been shown to reduce implantation rates.

7. Diet and lifestyle

Normal balanced diet. Continue prenatal vitamins. Adequate hydration. Avoid alcohol, smoking, recreational drugs. Limit caffeine. Listed contraindications (raw meat, unpasteurised dairy, certain fish) as appropriate. No need for extreme dietary restrictions.

8. Looking forward

14-day wait to pregnancy test (beta-hCG blood test 14 days post-transfer or 9-10 days post-blastocyst transfer). Symptoms not reliable predictors. Continue medications as prescribed. Watch for severe pain, heavy bleeding, signs of OHSS. Pregnancy test scheduled at clinic. Result by phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. Priyadatt Patel

Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead

MS OBGyn · Pregnancy Care · Advanced Gynaecological Ultrasound · Fertility Preservation

ESHRE / ESGE / AAGL / ASRM guideline-aligned practice. 3D Karl Storz precision technique. Fertility-preservation-first philosophy. Evidence-based decisions, honest counselling, long-term outcomes orientation.