What should you know about cryopreserved embryo transfer?

The embryo is kept in storage until your fertility team plans a transfer cycle. The uterine lining may be followed with scans and hormone tests. Some cycles use your own ovulation; others use prescribed oestrogen followed by progesterone. On transfer day, the laboratory warms the embryo and confirms whether it is suitable to use. A clinician guides a thin catheter through the cervix and releases the embryo into the uterus. The transfer itself is usually brief, and the embryo is not visible to you.

Afterward, progesterone may continue for a period advised by your clinic. A pregnancy test is arranged at the appropriate time; testing too early can be confusing, particularly if medication affects the result.

Take prescribed medicines at the times instructed and tell the clinic about new medicines, allergies, bleeding, or illness. Keep the appointment details accessible, follow the clinic's bladder instructions, and plan a calm return home. Ordinary gentle activity is generally compatible with recovery, but follow any individual restrictions. Do not stop hormone support because of light spotting without speaking with the fertility team.

Ask whether the embryo's storage, warming, and consent paperwork are complete before the appointment. Your clinic can explain what happens if an embryo does not remain suitable after warming.

Contact your fertility clinic promptly for heavy bleeding, worsening pelvic pain, fever, faintness, breathing difficulty, or severe abdominal swelling. Seek urgent medical care for severe pain with dizziness or collapse. A small amount of spotting or mild cramping can occur, but report symptoms that concern you or become stronger.

Which cycle plan and medicines will I use? When should I take progesterone? What should I do if I miss a dose or develop bleeding? When will the pregnancy test be done, and who should I call outside clinic hours?