IVF Embryo Transfer: Procedure, Risk, and Cost

IVF Embryo Transfer: Procedure, Risk, and Cost

Embryo transfer is one of the most poorly understood stages of IVF, even though it is important. Most patients have no idea of what they should expect, how long it will take, or what happens to their embryos. This ambiguity adds to the patient’s anxiety in an already emotionally charged situation.

This blog describes the full process of embryo transfer, starting with preparation and up to after-care. You will also get to know the risks, fresh and frozen transfer cycles, and the real picture of IVF embryo transfer price in Delhi.

What Is Embryo Transfer and How Is It Performed?

Embryo transfer is a procedure whereby one or more embryos are inserted into the uterine cavity using a thin and flexible catheter. The procedure takes place under the guidance of a transabdominal ultrasound to make sure that it is placed accurately in the best area of the endometrium.

The patient is on an examination table, just like a normal gynaecological check-up. A cervix is inserted, and the cervix is cleaned by inserting a speculum. The embryo suspended in a small amount of culture medium is loaded into a transfer catheter. The catheter goes through the cervical canal into the uterus, and the embryo is implanted. The total duration of the procedure is 10 to 15 minutes.

The majority of women who undergo the procedure claim that it is not more painful than a cervical smear test. Most cases do not need any anaesthesia.

What Is the Difference Between Fresh and Frozen Embryo Transfer?

It is essential to know the difference between these two approaches to make both clinical and cost planning.

Factor Fresh Embryo Transfer Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
Timing 3 to 5 days after egg retrieval Weeks to months after retrieval
Uterine preparation Natural (post-stimulation) Medicated protocol for lining preparation
Success rates Good, but the lining may be affected by stimulation Often higher due to optimised lining preparation
IVF cost in Delhi Included in base IVF cycle cost Additional ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per cycle
Suitable for Good responders with optimal lining Women at OHSS risk, all freeze cycles
Embryo survival Not applicable Over 95% survival with vitrification

Frozen embryo transfer has become the standard practice that most fertility experts recommend. Studies have always indicated that a naturally prepared uterus that has rested will implant better than one that has been subjected to high levels of oestrogen during stimulation.

What Are the Risks Associated With IVF Embryo Transfer?

Embryo transfer is associated with relatively low risk. It is a non-invasive procedure that has no surgical cuts. The primary risks are:

  • Infection: Rare. Sterile technique is employed.
  • Cervical injury: There can be minor bleeding in case of difficulty in the passage of the catheters.
  • Multiple pregnancy: In case of transfer of more than one embryo, and both implants.
  • Ectopic pregnancy: This is rare, though the implantation of the embryo may sometimes be extrauterine.
  • Implantation failure: The embryo fails to implant in the endometrium.

The most important clinical risk is multiple pregnancy. The vast majority of reputable IVF clinics have now recommended the use of single embryo transfer as a way of ensuring that this risk is reduced, compromising high success rates due to a careful selection of the embryo.

Discuss your transfer protocol with our team at www.sehgalnursinghome.com

What Does IVF Embryo Transfer Cost in Delhi?

The IVF cost in Delhi is different, as either a fresh transfer, which is part of the base IVF cycle, or an independent frozen embryo transfer cycle.

Transfer Type Approximate Cost in Delhi
Fresh embryo transfer (included in base IVF cycle) ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000 (full cycle)
Frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle ₹30,000 to ₹60,000
Medicated FET with monitoring ₹40,000 to ₹70,000
Blastocyst transfer (Day 5) ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 additional
Assisted hatching add-on ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 additional

Conclusion

IVF embryo transfer is very easy, fast, and less risky, and it is the peak of your whole treatment period. The knowledge of the difference between fresh and frozen transfer, the IVF cost in Delhi associated, and proper preparation of the day all help in making the day the best possible one.

Book your embryo transfer consultation at Sehgal Nursing Home. Visit www.sehgalnursinghome.com