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Blastocyst Embryo Transfer Update

Traditionally, embryo transfer for IVF was performed two or three days after insemination.

Recent evidence suggests that extended culture embryo transfer or blastocyst embryo transfer gives us a better chance of establishing pregnancy.

What this actually means is that embryos that are allowed to grow and thrive in the controlled laboratory environment for a little longer, allows embryologists to better see and select which embryos are the strongest and most viable.

It has also been found that a five day old embryo has a better chance to implant in the uterus over a two or three day old embryo.

Improved blastocyst transfer has been made possible by new advanced culture media allowing embryos to grow successfully for longer periods outside the body.

The advantages of blastocyst transfer (embryo transfer at 5 days) include:

  • Higher pregnancy rates and achieving pregnancy faster
  • Mimicking nature; two to three day-old embryos are normally travelling down the fallopian tubes and have not yet reached the womb. Blastocyst embryo transfer occurs at a more natural time for the embryos to be in the uterus
  • We can transfer fewer embryos to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy without compromising pregnancy rates