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    EMBRYO TRANSFER

    Ιt is the final step of the IVF process, where the fertilized embryos are transferred into the uterus with precision, under ultrasound guidance.
    An IVF attempt is completed with the Embryo Transfer, which is the transfer of the morphologically best fertilized oocytes (embryos) in the woman’s uterus in order to be implanted. 

     

    The exact day of the Embryo Transfer (2nd, 3rd or 5th day of development) and the status (fresh or vitrified) is depending on various parameters, such as the number, the quality and the development rate of the embryos, the medical history and the woman’s age. 

     

    Emphasizing every detail of IVF steps in our Unit , we give your embryo/s a helping hand during Embryo Transfer. Through the process  we put the embryo/s in a medium high in concentration of a macromolecule (hyaluronan) mimicking  natural fluids at the time of implantation. Hyaluronan’s production increases significantly the day of implantation while decreases to almost basal levels the day after, indicating its importance for the implantation event.

     

     

    The Embryo Transfer process is totally painless and does not require anesthesia. It is performed with precision with a thin, special manufactured catheter and under constant ultrasound monitoring.

     

    After the Embryo Transfer, the woman remains in bed for about one hour and then she may return at her home, where along with the appropriate medication she should rest and limit the activities that cause physical tiredness.

    Irrespectively of the IVF method which was followed at the embryology lab (conventional IVF, ICSI, PICSI or PGT) the outcome of the attempt is verified 10 to 12 days after the embryo transfer with a simple blood test.

    In happy case of a positive result, the blood test is repeated after 3 days and approximately a month post the egg collection, the first pregnancy ultrasound follows to verify the successful result.

    Embryoglue

    EmbryoGlue is a transfer medium containing a high concentration of an implantationpromoting macromolecule, hyaluronan.

    Hylauronan is the main glycosaminoglycan present in follicular, oviductal, and uterine fluids and can significantly contribute to the high-viscosity environment of the female reproductive tract.

    The synthesis of hyaluronan increases dramatically on the day upon which implantation is initiated, and it decreases to near basal levels by the next day, indicating its importance for the implantation event.

    Role of Embryo Glue as a transfer medium in the outcome of fresh non-donor in-vitro fertilization cycles – PMC(nih.gov)

    FAQs About Embryo Transfer

    Who decides which embryo/s to be transferred?

    The embryo transfer usually occurs either on cleavage stage  (day 2/3) or blastocyst stage (day 5/6 ). Choosing the best embryo/s to transfer is very crucial and determined by the embryologists. Embryologists keep a close-eye to every embryo and  have the training and expertise to select the best quality embryo/s based on specific laboratory criteria (i.e. number of cells, division rate, percentage of fragmentation etc). All these constitute the morphological evaluation of the developing in vitro embryos.

    What about the Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in the laboratory?

    IVF Athens Center takes seriously under consideration  all innovative additions. 

    We are one of the first IVF units in Greece, but also worldwide, that has established Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the laboratory as early as 2021. AI system offers a fully automated analysis not only morphologically but also developmentally  of the blastocysts giving a probability score of implantation. Since August 2023 this AI software was upgraded and the 2nd version was installed, offering a score option for day 2 and day 3 embryos as well. 

    How many embryos can I implant?

    Greek Legislation  (FEK 2589/2014) defines the exact number of embryos can be transferred depending on woman’s age and specific procedures (i.e. oocyte donation).

     

    Is embryo transfer a painful process?

    No, embryo transfer is painless and it does not require anesthesia or any particular preparation by the woman.

    Should I be at bed rest following embryo transfer?

    Despite the fact that embryo transfer is an easy, painless procedure with no need of sedation, we advice our patients to stay in our Unit, at bed rest  for about an hour. They can return home with no further need of bed rest, but eliminating intense physical activities. Absence from work is not necessary, but it is crucial to follow the medical instruction.

    We are here to answer any questions and discuss with you.