Transferring Two Embryos: Does It Affect the Pregnancy Success Rate?

Embryo transfer is a crucial step in various fertility treatments, but how exactly is it done? Who decides how many embryos are transferred? Is it true that transferring more embryos increases the success rate? Let's explore these questions in more detail.

What Is Embryo Transfer?

Embryo transfer involves placing the embryos into the uterus of the future mother. These embryos have been cultured in the laboratory until they reach the blastocyst stage (day 5-6 of development).

During this procedure, the patient should arrive at the fertility clinic with a half-full bladder, which helps improve the position of the uterus and ultrasound visualization. The process is painless, takes about 10 minutes, and does not require anesthesia. The specialist uses a catheter to place the embryos into the uterine cavity.

Can I Choose to Transfer as Many Embryos as I Want?

In Cyprus, as per regulations, only a limited number of embryos can be transferred during each reproductive cycle to ensure safety and optimal outcomes. The goal is to balance the chances of pregnancy while minimizing risks.

Does the Number of Embryos Transferred Affect the Success Rate?

The quality of the embryos plays a critical role in determining the success of an IVF cycle. While transferring more than one embryo may increase the chances of implantation and pregnancy, it also raises the risk of multiple pregnancies, which can pose risks for both mother and babies. Modern techniques now allow us to assess the quality of embryos and select the ones with the highest probability of implantation. This allows for fewer embryos to be transferred, maximizing pregnancy rates while minimizing risks for both mother and baby.

Who Decides How Many Embryos Are Transferred?

The decision on how many embryos to transfer is made collaboratively between the doctor and the patient. The specialist will recommend the best approach based on the patient's specific case, and the patient can participate in the decision-making process, provided it does not compromise her health or the outcome of the pregnancy.

If you have any questions about embryo transfer, feel free to contact us!