TFC offers frozen embryo transfer as part of IVF

When it comes to in vitro fertilization (IVF), our Austin infertility doctors offer two options for the embryo transfer step. Our doctors can perform a fresh or a frozen embryo transfer (FET). With advances in cryopreservation (freezing) technology, the second option has become more common at Texas Fertility Center (TFC). Frozen transfers also present several advantages for our patients.

Reasons to consider a frozen embryo transfer

IVF cycles often produce multiple healthy embryos. However, our Austin infertility doctors typically transfer only one embryo at a time. This is to avoid risky pregnancies with twins or higher order multiples.

If your IVF cycle leaves you with multiple embryos, our embryologists can freeze them for future pregnancy attempts. When you’re ready to conceive, our team will thaw an embryo and your doctor will perform a frozen embryo transfer.

The team at TFC may also recommend an FET for another reason. Research shows that frozen transfers can result in higher pregnancy success rates. When our team freezes IVF embryos, they must wait to transfer them. This delay allows your body to return to normal after having taken the ovarian stimulation medications.

There are other advantages of a frozen embryo transfer. If you want to conceive again, you do not need to undergo ovulation induction. There is also no need for another egg retrieval. Not only is this easier on your body, it saves money.

An overview of the FET process

Our Austin infertility doctors most commonly use medicated cycles for FET. Doing so presents significant scheduling advantages for our patients. As part of medicated cycle monitoring, you will take estrogen for approximately two weeks. This allows your uterine lining to develop.

Once your uterine lining is at least 7 mm thick, we will obtain your serum progesterone level to ensure that spontaneous ovulation has not occurred. At this point, you begin taking progesterone along with the estrogen. When your uterine lining is ready, our team will thaw an embryo and your doctor will transfer it to your uterus.

Your likelihood of experiencing frozen embryo transfer success depends on the age when you froze your embryos. If you froze your embryos at age 30, they retain the same quality regardless of when you use them. Your success also depends on the quality of the embryo that your doctor transferred.

If you have more questions about FET and IVF, our Austin infertility doctors have the answers. Contact us to schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable and caring doctors.