Embryo transfer usually occurs on the third or fifth day following egg retrieval. Many couples may benefit from a day 5 embryo transfer also known as blastocyst transfer. Blastocyst transfer involves growing embryos to the blastocyst stage (usually day 5), which allows for more accurate assessment of the embryos’ implantation potential. One of the benefits of blastocyst transfer is that it allows for transfer of fewer embryos (usually one embryo), minimizing the multiple pregnancy rate while maximizing the opportunity for a singleton pregnancy. This will be individualized based on discussion with your physician.

As multiple pregnancies are higher risk pregnancies, every effort will be made to maximize singleton pregnancies. Several patient specific considerations determine the number including:

• age of female partner
• stimulation cycle
• quality of embryos
• number of embryos suitable for cryopreservation and
• previous fertility history.

Individual recommendations will be made.

The procedure of embryo transfer is comfortable and does not require sedation (comparable to a pap smear). The patient is requested to have a full bladder so that transfer may be visualized using ultrasound guidance using an abdominal probe. The embryos are loaded into a fine catheter and passed though the cervix, into the uterus. Gentle pressure is applied to the catheter syringe and the embryos are released into the uterus. If the patient lives a significant drive or flight from Calgary they are advised to stay overnight post transfer.