Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) is an important step in modern fertility treatment that has helped many individuals and couples achieve pregnancy. With advances in IVF technology, freezing embryos has become safer, more reliable, and highly effective. If you are exploring fertility options, understanding how FET works, its success rates, and associated costs can help you make informed decisions.
Understanding Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
Frozen Embryo Transfer is a procedure in which an embryo created during an earlier IVF cycle is frozen, stored, and later transferred into the uterus. Instead of using fresh embryos immediately after egg retrieval, doctors freeze healthy embryos and use them in a future cycle when the uterus is well-prepared for implantation.
FET is often recommended to improve pregnancy outcomes, reduce physical stress on the body, and provide flexibility in fertility planning.
Who Can Benefit from FET?
Frozen Embryo Transfer may be suitable for:
- Women who have excess embryos after an IVF cycle
- Patients advised to delay pregnancy for medical reasons
- Those with hormonal imbalances during fresh IVF cycles
- Women at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
- Couples planning pregnancy at a later stage
FET allows patients to focus on uterine health before embryo transfer, which can increase the chances of success.
Step-by-Step Frozen Embryo Transfer Process
1. Embryo Freezing and Storage
After IVF fertilization, high-quality embryos are selected and frozen using advanced cryopreservation techniques. These embryos can be stored safely for several years without affecting their potential.
2. Uterine Preparation
In a future cycle, the uterus is prepared to support implantation. This can be done through:
- Natural cycles (tracking ovulation)
- Medicated cycles using estrogen and progesterone
The goal is to ensure optimal thickness and receptivity of the uterine lining.
3. Thawing the Embryo
On the day of transfer, the frozen embryo is carefully thawed in the laboratory. Modern freezing methods ensure high survival rates after thawing.
4. Embryo Transfer
The embryo is placed into the uterus using a thin catheter. This is a simple, painless procedure that usually does not require anesthesia.
5. Pregnancy Test
A blood test is performed around 10–14 days after transfer to confirm pregnancy.
Success Rates of Frozen Embryo Transfer
FET success rates have improved significantly and, in many cases, are comparable to or even higher than fresh embryo transfers. Factors that influence success include:
- Age of the woman at the time of egg retrieval
- Embryo quality
- Uterine health
- Underlying fertility conditions
On average, FET success rates range between 40% and 60% per cycle, though individual results may vary.
Advantages of Frozen Embryo Transfer
Frozen Embryo Transfer offers several benefits:
- Allows the body time to recover after egg retrieval
- Reduces the risk of OHSS
- Provides flexibility in timing pregnancy
- Enables genetic testing of embryos before transfer
- Often results in better uterine conditions
These advantages make FET a preferred option for many fertility specialists and patients.
Cost of Frozen Embryo Transfer
The cost of Frozen Embryo Transfer depends on multiple factors, such as clinic location, medication needs, and storage duration. Typically, the cost includes:
- Embryo thawing
- Uterine preparation medications
- Embryo transfer procedure
- Monitoring and follow-up tests
In India, the average cost of FET may range from ₹60,000 to ₹1,50,000 per cycle, excluding embryo freezing and storage fees from the original IVF cycle.
Is FET Safe?
Yes, Frozen Embryo Transfer is considered safe and widely practiced. Research shows that babies born through FET have similar health outcomes compared to those from fresh transfers. The procedure is less physically demanding and emotionally more manageable for many patients.
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) has become a reliable and effective option in fertility treatment, offering flexibility, improved uterine preparation, and encouraging success rates. With advances in embryo freezing techniques, FET allows couples to plan pregnancy at the right time while reducing physical stress and improving overall outcomes. Understanding the process, success factors, and costs helps patients feel more confident and prepared throughout their fertility journey.
If you are considering Frozen Embryo Transfer or want expert guidance tailored to your needs, consult Dr. Priti Shyamkul-Sonawane – Gynecologist & IVF Specialist at Titan IVF, Andheri West, Mumbai, to explore the most suitable fertility options and take a positive step toward parenthood.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long can embryos remain frozen for FET?
Embryos can be safely frozen and stored for several years without losing quality. Many studies show that long-term freezing does not affect implantation or pregnancy outcomes when embryos are properly preserved.
2. Is Frozen Embryo Transfer better than fresh embryo transfer?
In many cases, FET offers similar or higher success rates compared to fresh transfers. This is because the uterus is allowed to recover and hormones are better balanced before the embryo is transferred.
3. Does Frozen Embryo Transfer cause pain or discomfort?
FET is a simple and painless procedure. Most women experience minimal discomfort, and anesthesia is usually not required during embryo transfer.
4. How many embryos are transferred during FET?
Usually, one embryo is transferred to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies. However, the number may vary based on age, embryo quality, and medical history.
5. How soon can I try another FET cycle if the first one fails?
If the cycle is unsuccessful, doctors may recommend waiting for one menstrual cycle before planning the next transfer, depending on your physical and emotional readiness.
