After the formation of the embryos either by IVF or ICSI, these are transported into the cavity of the womb so that a pregnancy can be established. Embryo transfer can be achieved either directly after a cycle or after they have been frozen and thawed with a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET). During the ET a catheter is introduced in the uterine cavity under ultrasound guidance and the embryo is transferred.

It is very similar to having a Pap smear, no sedation is required and the patient can immediately return to her every day activities without concerns.

 

On occasions where the access to the uterine cavity through the neck of the womb (cervix) is difficult due to previous operations like LLETZ or Trachelectomy or in cases of vaginismus where the transvaginal access is very uncomfortable the ET is performed under sedation. The patient remains in the recovery area until she feels fit to return home and there are no concerns form her observations.