Blastocyst transfer

We often decide to transfer blastocysts depending on the quality and number of embryos available three days after fertilisation. The treatment cycles of blastocyst embryos are very similar to the routines of the IVF and ICSI cycles. The difference with blastocyst transfer is that the embryos are allowed to develop for 5-6 days instead of 2-3 in normal IVF/ICSI treatments before transfer.

Blastocyst transfer involves the transfer of the blastocyst into the uterus (womb) using a flexible catheter with its passage monitored through an ultrasound scan. The procedure does not need patient sedation and any discomfort the patient feels is only as a result of the full bladder.

Patients who undergo blastocyst embryo transfer procedure at The Fertility & Gynaecology Academy are only allowed a maximum of two embryos because the chances of pregnancy after the procedure are high and could result in multiple pregnancies. Single elective embryo transfers and freezing excess embryos is usually recommended, especially if the blastocysts produced are of good quality.

Blastocyst embryo transfers have been carried out by The Fertility & Gynaecology Academy for many years and can be carried out in conjunction with time lapse imaging. It should be noted that there is an increased risk of having identical (monozygotic) twins with blastocyst transfer.