Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): Benefits & Procedure

What Is Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)?

FET is basically an infertility treatment where previously retrieved and cryo-preserved embryos are carefully thawed and transferred into the concerned patient’s uterus to achieve pregnancy. Through delicate thawing and expert transfer, embryos are given the best conditions to thrive. It’s suitable for those who want to wait, use saved embryos, or improve success in challenging fertility situations.

Benefits of Frozen Embryo Transfer

FET has revolutionised fertility treatment. Utilising frozen embryos provides a safer, more flexible approach to conception, helping patients achieve better outcomes. Let’s talk about why FET is becoming the favourite choice for women looking for fertility support.

• Flexible Timing: FET means the embryo is placed in your uterus exactly when it has the best chance of sticking.
• Reduced Ovarian Burden: Unlike fresh cycles, FET lets your ovaries rest, reducing stress and discomfort.
• Optimised Endometrial Preparation: Hormonal priming facilitates implantation success.
• Multiple Pregnancy Attempts: Extra frozen embryos from previous IVF cycles can be used in future attempts, providing a better chance of embryo implantation without restarting the entire IVF process.
• Budget-Friendly: FET helps you save by using already frozen embryos, making your journey easier on the wallet.
• Patient-Centred Care: With fewer interventions and appointments, FET offers a more comfortable and manageable fertility journey.
• Great Success Rates: Research shows FET can be just as effective, if not better, than fresh transfers.
• Works for Many Patients: Perfect for women delaying pregnancy, managing OHSS risk, etc.

FET Procedure: Step-by-Step

FET combines modern science with patient comfort. It improves success rates while ensuring you feel supported. Here are the detailed FET procedure steps that outline how the cycle works:

• Endometrial Preparation: Hormones prepare the uterus for implantation.
• Embryo Thawing: The frozen embryos are slowly warmed with care by experts, making sure they are healthy for transfer.
• Embryo Transfer: A minimally invasive, typically painless procedure lasting only minutes, offering significant hope.
• Post-Transfer Care: Hormone therapy and careful monitoring support your body towards welcoming life.
• Pregnancy Test: About 10–14 days after the transfer, a blood or urine test is conducted to confirm whether implantation has occurred. Follow-up monitoring and guidance are provided based on results.

How Long Does the FET Cycle Take?

In just 4–6 weeks, an FET cycle takes you from preparation to transfer. With hormone therapy, expert embryo thawing, and post-transfer care, it’s a patient-friendly process built for success.

The timing can change based on how your body responds to hormones and how ready your uterus is. Because of this flexibility, you can schedule the transfer at a time that works best for your health and daily life.

Every stage of FET is closely monitored and individually tailored, combining safety and accuracy with patient comfort for the best possible outcome.

FET Success Rates in Nepal

Understanding the FET success rate helps patients set expectations and make informed choices about their fertility treatment. FET success is influenced by age, embryo quality, and uterine readiness, but the results can be encouraging. Reports suggest around 34.2% successful pregnancies for women with top-quality embryos, and this rate increases with younger women. Thanks to advanced lab techniques, careful embryo handling, and constant monitoring, FET now delivers better outcomes, making it a popular choice for many couples.

One great thing about FET is that you can use embryos from past IVF cycles, giving the patient multiple chances without going through ovarian stimulation again. FET is safe, effective, and gives you more control and confidence in your journey to parenthood.

FET Cost in Nepal

Frozen embryo transfer cost in Nepal generally depends on medications, labs, and the clinic’s facilities. Using frozen embryos makes IVF more budget-friendly than fresh IVF, skipping repeated stimulation and egg collection.

FET costs can vary based on your plan, how many embryos you transfer, and extra services like hormonal injections or monitoring. Check with your clinic for exact costs and the services available. With the right guidance, FET works well and is easy on the budget.

Reference: https://worldfertilityservices.com/ivf-in-nepal/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between FET and fresh embryo transfer?

Many patients compare FET vs fresh embryo transfer to understand which option gives better flexibility, safety, and success rates. FET uses previously frozen embryos, while fresh transfers happen right after retrieval. FET provides flexibility, improved uterine readiness, and the option for multiple attempts without restarting IVF.

Is FET safe for women of all ages?

Yes, FET is generally regarded as safe for women of various age groups. Success rates may differ depending on age, embryo quality, and overall reproductive health, with guidance provided by your fertility specialist.

How successful is FET compared to fresh embryo transfer?

FET success rates can be comparable to, or even better than, fresh transfers. Thanks to controlled timing, careful uterine preparation, and advanced lab work, your chances of implantation improve while ovarian stress stays low.

Can I choose the number of embryos to transfer?

Yes! Chat with your fertility specialist about the number of embryos. Age, health, and what you hope for matter.

How long should I rest after embryo transfer?

A little rest after the procedure is usually sufficient. No strict bed rest is needed. Gentle activities are encouraged, along with your doctor’s guidance on diet, exercise, and lifestyle to optimise pregnancy success.

Are there any side effects of FET?

For most people, side effects are minor, like light cramping, bloating, or sore breasts from hormones. Serious issues are rare, and your doctor will keep an eye on you to make sure everything stays safe and comfortable.

Does using frozen embryos affect the health of the baby?

No. Babies from frozen embryos are just as healthy as those from fresh transfers. FET has been successfully used around the world, and careful lab work keeps both mom and the baby safe.

Can I have multiple FET cycles from the same frozen embryos?

You can thaw frozen embryos from previous IVF cycles for another try. FET gives you more chances without going through stimulation again.