Blastocyst Embryo Transfer

Transfer of a more developed embryo
offering a greater potential for success

Introduction to Blastocyst Embryo Transfer

A blastocyst is the name given to an embryo that is 5-6 days old. A blastocyst embryo transfer does not differ from a normal embryo transfer during IVF treatment nor in relation to the preparation of the couple undergoing treatment, but simply refers to the age of the embryo in terms of its development at the stage of transfer.

Why Undergo Blastocyst Transfer?

Not all patients are suitable for a blastocyst transfer. Some patients may benefit from an early transfer rather than continued growth to a blastocyst stage especially if they have a very small number of good quality embryos. However, a blastocyst transfer can be an option for patients with repeated IVF failure or for older patients who have multiple, seemingly good or poor quality embryos.

A blastocyst transfer may also help to reduce the risk of high order of multiple pregnancies in younger patients for whom one single blastocyst can be transferred. Blastocyst stage embryos do have a higher chance of achieving a pregnancy compared to day 3 embryos. This can be attributed to the fact that the embryos have undergone a further selection process of eliminating embryos that have failed to develop into blastocysts. Typically around 60% of day 3 embryos will develop to the blastocyst stage.

How Does the Blastocyst Stage Embryo Transfer Process Work?

The embryos are cultured for an extended period of time in our laboratory and are transferred back into the uterus either five or six days after egg collection. This helps to us to improve the selection of your best quality embryo(s) with the greatest potential for development after a transfer.

Our embryologist will grade the two cell lines in the blastocysts; namely the Inner cell mass (ICM) and the Trophectoderm (TE).

Any surplus good quality blastocysts can be frozen for future use.

What Are the Risks Associated with Blastocyst Embryo Transfer?

One of the risks associated with a blastocyst embryo transfer is that there is a higher rate of cancellation of the cycle (i.e. no embryos being available for transfer due to no blastocyst formation). A blastocyst transfer has also been associated with a higher rate of monozygotic (identical) twins.

In addition, recent work on animals, namely cattle and sheep, showed that prolonged embryo culture followed by a blastocyst embryo transfer could, in some cases, lead to neonatal problems, notably increased birth weight and congenital abnormalities. There is no evidence, so far, of similar findings following transfer of human embryos at the blastocyst stage.

Treatments

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Why Choose Us?

Here are some facts about your fertility journey with us that we’d like to share with you:

Every evaluation and treatment plan is uniquely tailored to meet your individual needs

You will have access to leading professionals, with over 35 years combined expertise, providing you with confidence and reassurance in your fertility diagnosis and subsequent treatment

Our multidisciplinary team includes specialists in fertility, urology, nutrition, counselling, genetics, endocrinology, haematology and weight management to provide a comprehensive range of support as and when you need it

We will work with you closely to understand your individual circumstances, identify any problems and agree with you, the best course of action to help make your dream a reality

We will always be honest and open about your chances of success with treatment.

Your comfort and care is always our top priority

Our focus remains entirely on you as an individual, your unique needs and your wellbeing

All investigations and treatments are provided within our new state-of-the-art clinic based in Elstree which offers a spacious environment with comfortable surroundings, to enhance your care and experience. We offer investigations and scans at our satellite locations too.

Our friendly consultant-led team is here to support you at every step throughout your fertility journey

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