What should you know about multiple embryo transfer?

During IVF, an embryologist prepares embryos and a clinician places the selected embryo or embryos through the cervix into the uterus. Transfer does not guarantee that an embryo will implant, and transferring more than one does not guarantee that more than one will implant. The choice depends on embryo development, previous treatment, age, health and the clinic's clinical approach.

If more than one embryo implants, a multiple pregnancy can require closer monitoring and can carry additional concerns for the pregnant person and babies, including early birth. Ask the team to explain the benefits and trade-offs in terms you can use for your own decision.

Ask for a written plan covering embryo selection, the number proposed, what happens to embryos not transferred, and how pregnancy will be monitored. Review all medicines with the clinic. Micronised Progesterone may be prescribed as part of luteal support; use it exactly as directed and ask before stopping it.

Discuss whether transferring one embryo is suitable for your circumstances and how a later frozen transfer could fit your goals. If you proceed with multiple embryo transfer, arrange early follow-up and understand when the pregnancy scan will occur. Support from a counsellor can help when treatment decisions feel emotionally heavy.

Contact your fertility team promptly for heavy bleeding, worsening pelvic pain, fever, breathing difficulty, marked abdominal swelling, repeated vomiting or a sudden reduction in urine after treatment. Seek emergency care for severe pain, fainting, chest pain or trouble breathing.

Ask: Why are you recommending this number of embryos? What are the risks of a multiple pregnancy for me and the babies? Would single embryo transfer be reasonable? How will you monitor me after transfer? Which symptoms need urgent assessment?