Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
Frozen embryo transfer (FET) is a fertility treatment where embryos from a previous IVF cycle—either your own or from a donor—are used for implantation. Sometimes, it also involves fertilizing a donor egg with sperm in a lab, letting it develop into an embryo, and freezing it for later use. It’s a way to give embryos a second chance at pregnancy!
With medical advancements, frozen embryos can stay viable for over 10 years.
Many fertility clinics prefer frozen embryo transfers because they have higher success rates than fresh transfers. This is partly due to the medications used during egg retrieval in IVF or INVOcell, which can affect the uterus and make implantation harder.
Studies show that pregnancies from frozen embryos are often healthier. There is a lower chance of stillbirth, preterm birth, and low birth weight compared to fresh transfers.
Cost
The cost of a frozen embryo transfer (FET) typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the fertility clinic. This price does not include medications, donor embryos, donor sperm, or donor eggs.
Donor Options
Some women undergo FET after a failed IVF cycle if they have embryos or eggs that were previously frozen. Others pursue FET through donor options, such as embryo adoption or using both donor sperm and donor eggs.
For embryo adoption, some clinics offer in-house programs, but most women need to find an embryo donated by someone who no longer needs their frozen embryos. Several organizations and online services help match donors with recipients, and fertility clinics may also provide recommendations.
For sperm and egg donors, once both have been secured, they are fertilized in a lab, and the resulting embryo is frozen until the transfer procedure.
Preparing for FET
To get ready for treatment, your fertility clinic will order blood tests to determine the best course of action. Some insurance plans may cover these tests if performed at an in-network lab. If you live far from your fertility clinic, you may be able to coordinate some of the testing and monitoring through your OB/GYN.
FET, along with IVF, INVOcell, and sometimes IUI, requires hormone medications to prepare the body. These medications are usually self-administered through injections for about 10 days, though some clinics may require a longer regimen before and after the procedure. The initial injections help with ovulation, while progesterone shots after the procedure support implantation and reduce the risk of miscarriage.
Injections are usually given in the belly or upper thigh. While this might seem intimidating at first, many find it easier than expected. If you experience unusual redness, bruising, or irritation at the injection site, contact your fertility clinic. If you’re using multiple medications, they may advise injecting them in different locations to identify any reactions.
What to Expect During FET
On transfer day, the doctor may give you mild pain medication or a sedative. The procedure itself involves inserting a thin, flexible tube through the cervix into the uterus to place the embryo.
If successful, the embryo will implant in the uterus within 10 days of transfer.
What to Expect After FET
Mild cramping after the procedure is normal. It’s best to take it easy for the rest of the day. From this point forward, act as if you’re already pregnant—eat well, take care of yourself, and avoid extreme temperatures and intense workouts. Light exercise is fine, but high-intensity training (HIIT) should be avoided. If you feel discomfort, stop and rest. Keep your heart rate below 140 bpm and avoid raising your core body temperature.
Your fertility clinic may schedule follow-up monitoring, but in most cases, you only need to notify them if the transfer was successful. This is confirmed through a BETA blood test, which can be done by your physician or OB/GYN.
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SingleMomsByChoice.org is run by single moms by choice for single moms by choice, dedicated to helping educate, enlighten and empower women who are thinking about or who have decided to have a child “on their own” through donor insemination, egg or embryo donation, adoption or other assisted means.
