Frozen Embryo Transfer

There are two kinds of embryo transfer: fresh and frozen. A frozen embryo transfer, also known as FET, occurs when an embryo created in an earlier IVF or ICSI cycle is thawed and transferred into the uterus.

If you have been wondering what a frozen embryo transfer is, it is simply the transfer of a previously frozen embryo at a later date, rather than in the same cycle as egg collection. Embryos are often frozen to provide a more optimal opportunity to prepare the body for transfer.

Frozen transfers can be just as effective as fresh transfers. In many cases, they may provide better conditions for implantation. This is because it can be easier to prepare the uterine lining and hormone levels in a different cycle. If our doctors think a fresh transfer may not be the best option, they might suggest a freeze-all approach and plan for a frozen transfer instead.

Frozen embryos can be stored for future use, and there is no fixed limit on how long an embryo can remain frozen. If you have embryos in storage and are thinking about next steps, our team can talk you through timing, medication and what may be realistic for your individual circumstances.

You may need a frozen embryo transfer if you already have embryos in storage from a previous IVF or ICSI cycle and want to use them to try to become pregnant. It may also be recommended if your earlier cycle was planned as a freeze-all cycle, or if a fresh transfer was not considered the best option at the time.

The best way to know whether FET is the right next step is through a consultation. Our doctors will review your treatment history, embryo storage details, cycle timing and any medication needed to help you move forward with clarity.

A frozen embryo transfer is a shorter treatment pathway than a full IVF or ICSI cycle, but it still deserves careful planning and expert support. Our team focuses on creating the right conditions for transfer, while helping you feel informed and cared for at every stage.