Frozen embryo transfer (FET) is a procedure in which embryos that were previously frozen during an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle are thawed and transferred into the uterus of a woman trying to conceive. FET is often used as a second-line treatment for infertility, after a fresh IVF cycle has failed or when a woman wants to use previously created embryos for a future pregnancy.
The success rates of FET vary depending on a number of factors, including the age of the woman, the quality of the embryos, and the cause of infertility. In general, the success rates of FET are slightly lower than those of fresh IVF, but they are still relatively high, especially when compared to other fertility treatments.
In this article, Dr. Nisarg Patel an Gynecologist at Nisha IVF Centre in Ahemadabad will cover all about the success of frozen embryo transfer.
Success Rate of frozen embryo transfer
The success rates of frozen embryo transfer (FET) vary depending on a number of factors, including the age of the woman, the quality of the embryos, and the cause of infertility. In general, the success rates of FET are slightly lower than those of fresh in vitro fertilization (IVF), but they are still relatively high, especially when compared to other fertility treatments.
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the clinical pregnancy rate for FET is around 50% per transfer for women under the age of 35. This means that approximately half of all FET cycles result in a clinical pregnancy (defined as a pregnancy that can be seen on an ultrasound). For women over the age of 35, the clinical pregnancy rate is slightly lower, at around 40% per transfer.
It’s important to note that these success rates are just estimates and that every couple’s situation is unique. The success of a FET cycle will depend on a variety of factors, including the age of the woman, the quality of the embryos, and the cause of infertility.
It’s also important to remember that success rates can vary depending on the specific fertility clinic and the techniques used. It’s a good idea to discuss the success rates of FET at a particular clinic with a fertility specialist before starting treatment.
Factors Affecting Success Rates of frozen embryo transfer
There are several factors that can affect the success rates of frozen embryo transfer (FET), including:
- Age of the woman: The chances of a successful pregnancy decrease as a woman gets older, due to the decline in the quality and quantity of eggs with age.
- Quality of the embryos: Embryos that are of good quality are more likely to implant and result in a successful pregnancy. Factors that can affect the quality of embryos include the age of the eggs, the health of the sperm, and the overall health of the embryos themselves.
- Cause of infertility: Certain conditions, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids, can make it more difficult for an embryo to implant and result in a successful pregnancy.
- Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is often used before and during a FET cycle to prepare the uterus for pregnancy and support the pregnancy. The type and dosage of hormones used can impact the success of the FET cycle.
- Lifestyle factors: A woman’s overall health and lifestyle can also affect the success of a FET cycle. Factors such as nutrition, exercise, and stress can all impact fertility.
- Experience of the fertility clinic: The success rates of FET can also vary depending on the specific fertility clinic and the techniques used. It’s a good idea to discuss the success rates of FET at a particular clinic with a fertility specialist before starting treatment.
By understanding these factors, couples can make informed decisions about their fertility treatment options and increase their chances of achieving pregnancy through FET.
Why is frozen embryo transfer recommended and used?
Frozen embryo transfer (FET) is often recommended and used as a second-line treatment
for infertility, after a fresh in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle has failed or when a woman wants to use previously created embryos for a future pregnancy.
There are several reasons why FET may be recommended over a fresh IVF cycle:
- To increase the chances of pregnancy: FET allows a couple to use previously created and frozen embryos, which may have a higher chance of implantation and resulting in a successful pregnancy compared to fresh embryos.
- To avoid the need for additional ovarian stimulation: During a fresh IVF cycle, a woman must undergo hormone therapy to stimulate the production of eggs. This can be physically and emotionally draining. FET allows a woman to avoid this additional hormone therapy and the potential side effects associated with it.
- To preserve fertility: FET allows a couple to preserve embryos for use in a future pregnancy, which can be particularly useful for women who are planning to undergo cancer treatment or other medical procedures that may affect their fertility.
- To reduce costs: FET can be a more cost-effective option compared to fresh IVF, as it eliminates the need for additional ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval procedures.
Dr. Nisrag Patel says, “FET is a viable treatment option for couples facing fertility challenges and can increase the chances of pregnancy while avoiding the need for additional hormone therapy and reducing costs”.
Conclusion
In conclusion, frozen embryo transfer (FET) is a viable option for individuals who wish to become pregnant using in vitro fertilization (IVF) technology. The success rates of FET depend on a variety of factors, including the age of the woman undergoing the procedure, the quality of the embryos being transferred, and the overall health of the woman.
While FET success rates may be slightly lower than those for fresh embryo transfer, they are still quite good, and the procedure can be a successful means of achieving pregnancy for many individuals.