What should you know about embryo transfer method?

Your fertility team prepares the uterine lining, confirms the timing, and chooses an embryo for transfer. A speculum may be used to view the cervix. The clinician guides a soft catheter through the cervix and releases the embryo into the uterine cavity, then removes the catheter. The transfer is different from egg collection because it generally does not require an operation or removal of eggs.

The method may be part of fresh or frozen embryo treatment. Medication such as micronised progesterone may support the uterine lining when prescribed. The embryo does not become attached immediately; implantation, if it occurs, happens later.

Follow the clinic’s instructions about medicines, appointments, bladder preparation, and eating or drinking. Take prescribed support medicine at the instructed time and do not stop it because of mild spotting without contacting the clinic. Afterward, gentle daily activity is usually reasonable unless your team gives different advice; ask about exercise, intercourse, travel, and work for your situation. Keep the planned pregnancy-test appointment, since early testing can be misleading.

Contact the fertility clinic promptly for heavy bleeding, severe or worsening pelvic pain, fever, fainting, breathing difficulty, or marked abdominal swelling. Seek urgent help for severe pain with dizziness or collapse. Mild cramping or light spotting can occur, but report symptoms that concern you or are becoming stronger.

Ask which transfer method is planned, whether the embryo is fresh or frozen, which medicines you should continue, and when your pregnancy test is due. You can also ask what symptoms should trigger an urgent call.