Questions about the embryo transfer are generally related to the preparation and the technique followed. The procedure of embryo transfer is simple, but there are several details that we like to take care about, in order to make the embryo transfer as smooth as possible and minimize the impact that any external factor might have on the embryos.
Is the embryo transfer painful?
The embryo transfer is not painful. It can cause the same inconvenience than a Pap smear. The procedure is simple. In URH Garcia of the Real, the gynecologist will do a trial transfer with an empty catheter, and thus will check if your uterus is easy or difficult to access. Later, the embryologist will charge another transfer catheter with the embryos, and give it to the gynecologist so that she transfers them to your uterus. Once introduced into the uterus, the embryologist will check that the embryos have not been left in the catheter and subsequently you will be at rest for ten minutes.
At the time of embryo transfer, we have been told not to use perfume, why?
For the embryo transfer, the embryologist takes the embryos out of the incubator and therefore they get to be in contact with the air. Perfumes, colonies, deodorants,… contain substances harmful to embryos. These substances will remain in the air and the embryos can make contact with them. The truth is that everything is done very quickly. It takes a few minutes to remove the embryos from the incubator, until the gynecologist transfers them to the uterus. In URH Garcia of Real we take care for the conditions to be as natural and healthy as possible for the embryos.
Why do I have to go with a full bladder to the embryo transfer?
A full bladder decreases the angle of entry to the uterus, and this makes it easier to access the uterus with the transfer cannula. In addition, the abdominal ultrasound, performed at the time of the embryo transfer, looks better and the embryo transfer will be more controlled. Anyway, it is only necessary to drink one or two glasses of fluid (water, juice…) an hour before the embryo transfer. It isn´t good to be nervous for having the need to urinate during the embryo transfer.
Should I put the vaginal progesterone the morning of the embryo transfer?
Yes, it is very important that you follow with the medication as you were prescribed by the gynecologist. The vaginal progesterone will help the implantation of the embryos that are going to be transferred. Don’t worry, before placing the embryos in your uterus, the doctor will clean your vagina and eliminate the remains of progesterone.
Dr. Rosa Cercas Duque IVF and Andrology Laboratory
