Choosing the right embryo transfer method is one of the most important decisions in your IVF journey, as it can significantly impact your chances of success.
If you have embryos created and want to explore surrogacy as a path to parenthood, contact us online now or browse available surrogate situations to get a head start on your journey.
By understanding fresh vs. frozen embryo transfer success rates, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your fertility goals, leading to a higher likelihood of achieving a successful pregnancy. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between fresh and frozen embryo transfers, compare the success rate of fresh vs frozen embryo transfer, and discuss which option may be best for your situation.
Understanding Fresh vs. Frozen Embryo Transfer Success Rates
What is a Fresh Embryo Transfer?
In a fresh embryo transfer, embryos are transferred into the uterus shortly after the egg retrieval process. Here’s how it works:
After ovarian stimulation, eggs are collected and fertilized in the lab. Embryos are monitored as they develop, typically for 3-5 days. Once the embryos reach the desired stage, they are transferred to your uterus within a few days of retrieval, all within the same IVF cycle.
A fresh transfer keeps the momentum of the IVF process moving quickly since embryos are used almost immediately. This can be an advantage for patients who want to avoid waiting or freezing costs.
What is a Frozen Embryo Transfer?
A frozen embryo transfer (FET) involves transferring embryos that were created and frozen during a previous IVF cycle. The process looks like this:
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Egg Retrieval and Embryo Freezing: After egg retrieval, embryos are developed and frozen using a process called vitrification.
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Storage: These embryos are kept in storage until you are ready for the transfer.
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Preparation for Transfer: Once you’re ready, your uterus is prepared for implantation through medications or a natural cycle, and the thawed embryos are transferred to your uterus.
Did You Know?
FET allows for flexibility in timing, letting you take a break between egg retrieval and transfer and also gives your body more time to recover from the stimulation phase of IVF.
Which Is More Successful Fresh or Frozen Embryo Transfer?
Success rates between fresh and frozen embryo transfers are one of the key considerations for intended parents.
According to recent data, frozen embryo transfer success rates are higher compared to fresh transfers. This trend has been observed due to several factors, including the ability to:
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Allow your body to recover fully from the hormone treatments involved in egg retrieval.
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Optimize uterine lining preparation for a more receptive environment.
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Use preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) on frozen embryos to select the healthiest ones.
According to the Pacific Fertility Center Los Angeles (PFCLA) showed that FET can result in better pregnancy outcomes because the body is in a more stable and less stressed state at the time of the transfer.
While still effective, fresh embryo transfer success rates may be lower because the ovarian stimulation process used to retrieve eggs can impact your body’s readiness to receive the embryo.
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Women under 35 tend to have higher success rates for both types of transfers. However, frozen embryos often provide better outcomes for older women. Higher-quality embryos are more likely to result in successful implantation, regardless of whether they’re fresh or frozen. A properly prepared uterine lining is critical for implantation. FET offers more flexibility to ensure optimal timing. With FET, genetic testing (PGT) can help ensure that only the healthiest embryos are selected, improving success rates. Your overall health and hormone levels at the time of transfer can also play a big role in the outcome.Factors That Affect Fresh vs. Frozen Embryo Transfer Success Rates
Which Option is Right for You?
Deciding between a fresh and frozen embryo transfer depends on your circumstances and goals for family-building.
Fresh embryo transfer may be right if:
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You want to complete your IVF cycle as quickly as possible.
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You’re younger with a high ovarian reserve, which may increase fresh transfer success rates.
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You prefer to avoid the additional costs of freezing embryos.
Frozen embryo transfer may be right if:
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You want to give your body time to recover between egg retrieval and transfer.
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You’re considering preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to ensure embryo quality.
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You want more flexibility in planning your transfer timing.
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Your uterine lining wasn’t ideal during the fresh cycle.
Ultimately, discussing your personal health, age and fertility goals with your fertility specialist is the best way to decide which transfer option will help you build your family most effectively. If you have embryos created and want to explore surrogacy as an option, contact us online now to get a head start on your journey to parenthood.