What is Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)?
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) is a technique used in fertility treatments. Previously created embryos through IVF are cryopreserved (frozen) and then thawed and transferred into the uterus. These embryos could be from a previous IVF cycle, leftover embryos from a successful cycle, or intentionally frozen for future use. FET offers several advantages, including:
- Increased flexibility in timing
- Improved uterine receptivity
- Ability to use surplus embryos
The process involves carefully thawing the embryos, assessing their viability, and then placing them into the uterus during the menstrual cycle's receptive phase. FET allows for selecting the most favourable time for implantation, potentially improving pregnancy success rates.
Types of Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
There are different types of FET protocols based on the woman’s menstrual cycle and hormone levels:
- Natural Cycle FET: Uses the woman’s natural ovulation cycle without hormonal support; ideal for regular menstrual cycles.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Cycle FET: Uses estrogen and progesterone to prepare the uterine lining, offering better control over timing.
- Modified Natural Cycle FET: Combines mild hormonal support with the natural cycle to optimize endometrial receptivity.
- Stimulated Cycle FET: Involves mild ovarian stimulation medications for women with irregular ovulation.
15-30 min
Surgery Duration
Usually Not Required
Anesthesia Used
Same Day Discharge
Hospital Stay
1-2 days
Full Recovery Timeline
What are the Indications of the Procedure?
FET is similar to traditional fresh embryo transfer in Vitro Fertilization (IVF). It's often considered when:
- Excess Embryos: Leftover embryos from a previous IVF cycle can be cryopreserved and transferred later.
- Optimal Timing: FET allows for better synchronization between the embryo's development and the uterine lining's receptivity.
- Reduced OHSS Risk: In cases with a high risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) during fresh IVF, embryos can be frozen for transfer in a separate cycle.
- Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing (PGT): FET allows for delayed transfer after PGT for chromosomal abnormalities or genetic disorders.
- Embryo Quality: If embryo quality is compromised during fresh IVF, it can be cryopreserved and transferred later when the uterine environment might be more favorable.
- Medical Reasons: Medical conditions or treatments might necessitate delaying embryo transfer, making FET suitable.
- Endometrial Polyps or Fibroids: Women with these conditions detected during fresh IVF might opt for FET after resolving them.
- Cervical Factors:Certain cervical factors can affect embryo transfer during the fresh cycle. FET bypasses these by placing the embryo directly into the uterus.
- Patient Preference:Some individuals or couples may prefer a separate cycle for embryo transfer due to personal or logistical reasons.
Who Needs Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)?
FET is recommended for individuals or couples who have frozen embryos from prior IVF/ICSI cycles and are planning to conceive later.
Common symptoms include:
- Couples with remaining frozen embryos from previous IVF cycles
- Women needing uterine rest after stimulation in fresh IVF cycles
- Couples facing failed fresh embryo transfers
- Patients with hormonal imbalances or thin uterine lining during earlier IVF
- Women delaying pregnancy after successful embryo creation
- Couples using donor embryos or gestational surrogacy
How to Prepare for Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
Preparation focuses on creating the most receptive environment for embryo implantation:
- Initial Consultation: Review previous IVF records and embryo quality.
- Hormonal Evaluation: Blood tests to check estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid levels.
- Endometrial Preparation: Medications are prescribed to thicken and stabilize the uterine lining.
- Ultrasound Monitoring: To track endometrial growth and ovulation timing.
- Embryo Thawing: Embryos are carefully thawed in the laboratory before transfer.
- Procedure Scheduling: Embryo transfer is planned based on endometrial receptivity.
Steps Involved in Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) Procedure
Before FET
- Embryo Freezing: Selection of embryos for cryopreservation based on quality and developmental stage.
- Cryopreservation: Careful freezing of selected embryos and eggs to prevent ice crystal formation and preserve viability. Egg freezing ensures future fertility options.
- Uterine Preparation: Hormonal medications (estrogen and progesterone) are used to prepare the uterine lining for transfer. This might involve natural or medicated cycles.
- Synchronization: If FET involves a donor or surrogate, cycles are synchronized for optimal timing.
- Endometrial Assessment: Ultrasounds and sometimes blood tests monitor the uterine lining's thickness and receptivity.
During FET
- Embryo Thawing: Cryopreserved embryos are thawed in the laboratory on the day of transfer.
- Embryo Evaluation: Thawed embryos are assessed for viability and survival after thawing.
- Embryo Transfer: A catheter is used to gently transfer the selected embryo(s) into the woman's uterus. Ultrasound guidance might be used for precise placement.
After FET
The frozen embryo transfer process involves:
- Post-Transfer Rest: A short rest period is often recommended after the procedure.
- Luteal Phase Support: Progesterone supplements or medications continue to support the uterine lining and potential pregnancy.
- Pregnancy Test: About 10-14 days after transfer, a pregnancy test is conducted.
- Early Pregnancy Monitoring: If pregnancy is confirmed, additional monitoring through ultrasounds and blood tests ensures the pregnancy's progress.
- Continued Medications: If pregnancy is achieved, hormonal support might continue for a few more weeks.
Frozen Embryo Transfer Timeline
Frozen embryo transfer (FET) typically follows this timeline:
- Preparation Phase (10-14 days): Hormonal medications are taken to prepare the uterine lining.
- Monitoring: Ultrasounds and blood tests to track hormone levels.
- Embryo Transfer Day: Embryo is transferred into the uterus, usually on Day 3 or Day 5 of the cycle.
- Post-Transfer: Progesterone is continued to support implantation.
- Pregnancy Test: About 10-14 days after transfer to confirm pregnancy.
Recovery After Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
Recovery after FET is usually quick and comfortable since it’s a minimally invasive procedure.
- Rest: Light rest for the first 24 hours is recommended; normal routine can resume the next day.
- Medications: Continue prescribed progesterone and hormonal support to help implantation.
- Physical Activity: Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, or sexual activity for about a week.
- Diet: Eat a balanced, protein-rich diet and stay hydrated.
- Emotional Care: Stress management, meditation, and proper sleep enhance success rates.
- Pregnancy Test: Blood test (β-hCG) is done 12-14 days post-transfer to confirm pregnancy.
Follow-Up After Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
Follow-up care is essential to monitor early pregnancy and ensure proper hormone balance:
- 1st Follow-Up (2 Weeks Post-Transfer): Blood pregnancy test and early ultrasound if positive.
- 2nd Follow-Up (4-6 Weeks Post-Transfer): Confirm gestational sac and fetal heartbeat.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Hormone levels, medication adjustments, and support through the first trimester.
- If Negative Result: Doctor discusses next steps, possible causes, and future FET cycle planning.
Benefits of Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
- Reduces the need for another full IVF cycle
- Higher implantation rates due to better uterine preparation
- Allows embryo genetic testing before transfer (if PGT is done)
- Safer for women at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
- Offers flexible timing and multiple pregnancy opportunities from one IVF cycle
- Cost-effective and emotionally less stressful than starting IVF again
Risks of Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
While generally safe and successful, FET may involve some risks:
- Failure of implantation or early miscarriage
- Hormonal side effects (bloating, mood changes, or mild cramps)
- Multiple pregnancy (if multiple embryos are transferred)
- Rare risk of embryo damage during thawing
- Emotional stress if pregnancy is not achieved
How Much Does Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) Cost in India?
- Standard FET Cycle: Rs. 80,000 - Rs. 1,50,000
- HRT/Advanced FET Cycle: Rs. 1,50,000 - Rs. 2,50,000+
Costs vary depending on injury extent, hospital type, surgeon expertise, and use of microsurgical or reconstructive techniques.
040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
