Jeffrey B. Russell, MD   Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist, Infertility Specialist   Yale University Trained

Embryo Transfer

During the cycle, the IVF team will determine whether the transfer will be on day 3 or 5 after the egg retrieval. This is based on set criteria for embryo quality and quantity. The embryo transfer process is similar to the IUI or a routine pelvic exam and pap test. A speculum is placed in the vagina, the cervix is cleaned with sterile culture media and the embryo is inserted through the cervix with the assistance of ultrasound guidance to place the embryo at the top of the uterine cavity. The number of embryos to transfer will depend on embryo quality. Due to the high success rate in donor recipient cycles, we strongly encourage consideration of a single embryo transfer.