About three to five days after the retrieval, the fertilized eggs will be transferred. The procedure for embryo transfer is just like IUI treatment. You won't need anesthesia.
During the embryo transfer, a thin tube, or catheter, will be passed through your cervix. You may experience very light cramping but nothing more than that. Through the catheter, they will transfer the embryos, along with a small amount of fluid.
The number of embryos transferred will depend on the quality of the embryos and previous discussion with your doctor. Depending on your age, anywhere from two to five embryos may be transferred. Recent studies have shown success with just one embryo transferred. Speak to your doctor to find out if this may apply to you.
After the transfer, you'll stay lying down for a couple hours (bring a book) and then head home.
If there are "extra" high-quality embryos left over, you may be able to freeze them. This is called "embryo cryopreservation." They can be used later if this cycle isn't successful, or they can be donated.
