Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is the procedure of placing the embryo or embryos that have reached the desired stage in a laboratory environment into the uterus of the prospective mother. While it can sometimes be performed under anesthesia in cases such as vaginismus, it usually does not require anesthesia. If anesthesia is to be administered, the patient must fast for 6 hours.

The transfer procedure is carried out between the 2nd and 6th days after OPU (Oocyte Pickup) based on various criteria, such as embryo development, number, the age of the patient, and the number of previous attempts. In some cases, if the uterus is not suitable for transfer, the embryos are frozen and stored. In a subsequent cycle, the thawed embryos are used for the transfer procedure.

Patients do not need to make significant lifestyle changes before embryo transfer. The prospective mother should arrive at the clinic one hour before the transfer time. To ensure a clear view of the uterus via ultrasound, the mother should come with a full bladder.

During embryo transfer, the prospective mother lies in a gynecological position. A speculum is inserted to expose the vagina and cervix (the neck of the uterus), which are cleaned with a sterile solution. The embryologist loads the embryos to be transferred into a syringe along with a small amount of a special fluid under a microscope.

The transfer is performed while the mother has a full bladder to ensure a clear view of the uterus via ultrasound, observe the catheter's progression through the endometrium, and facilitate the transfer. The embryo transfer catheter is advanced along the vagina under ultrasound guidance until there is a space of one and a half cm between the catheter and the top of the uterus. The embryos are released into the uterine cavity, and the catheter is carefully withdrawn.

The implantation of the transferred embryos in the uterus begins 3-4 days later. After the transfer, resting for half an hour is sufficient, and it is known that lying down for an extended period does not positively impact pregnancy outcomes.

The quality of the transferred embryos is one of the primary factors affecting the outcome. Typically, the embryos are classified based on their cell numbers, cell shapes, and fragments, which are intracellular waste materials, examined under a microscope.

As the quality of the embryo increases, the potential for attachment to the uterus also rises. Although embryo transfer is a short, simple, and painless procedure, it constitutes one of the most critical stages of IVF treatment.

Couples coming from out of town can travel 2-3 hours after the transfer without issue. Couples traveling from longer distances can return home after staying for a day in the city where the procedure was performed if necessary.

After the transfer procedure, it is sufficient for the prospective mother to rest for 3 days. She can then return to her daily life. Sneezing, coughing, and turning over in bed do not negatively affect implantation.

Additionally, there is no harm in going up and down stairs. It is advisable to avoid heavy exercise and heavy work until pregnancy is confirmed, and to avoid sudden movements.

Breast fullness, cramping in the lower abdomen as if about to have a period, and pink-brown spotting are situations that may occur after the transfer. There is no need to panic or worry if you experience these conditions.

However, if the discharge resembles red menstrual bleeding, you should definitely consult your doctor.

There is no harm in showering after the transfer procedure. Both after the transfer and during pregnancy, it is important to avoid consuming carbonated beverages, coffee, and herbal teas.

It is essential not to use tobacco or alcohol. It is beneficial to avoid overly spicy, oily foods and focus on consuming fresh vegetables, fruits, and protein-rich foods while drinking plenty of water. Do not take any medication without consulting your doctor.

There is nothing particularly special that needs to be done after the embryo transfer. Couples can rest for about half an hour in the clinic where the procedure was performed and then return home.

• Heavy sports exercises should not be performed in the first few days.
• Swimming is not recommended to avoid vaginal infections.
• Avoid exposure to paints and liquids that may contain lead.
• Do not lift or carry heavy objects.
• Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided.
• There should be no sexual intercourse for two weeks.
• Medications should be taken after consulting with a doctor. Progesterone injections and other medications prescribed for luteal support should be used as directed and not discontinued. Generally, luteal support with progesterone continues until the end of the 12th week of pregnancy. After this week, the placenta provides the necessary progesterone support.
• To avoid potential listeria infection, unpasteurized milk and fresh cheese should not be consumed.

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