|
The main benefit for freezing embryos is that it allows for their transfer in later treatment cycles without the need for ovarian stimulation and egg collection.
Its main disadvantage is that normally only 60% of embryos survive the rigorous freeze/thaw process. The surviving embryos have a lower rate of implantation and, therefore, a lower pregnancy rate is achieved than when fresh embryos are used.
|
|
There are different methods of preparation for FER
With the natural method, an ovulation prediction test is often recommended to complement the scans.
The embryos are thawed and replaced into the uterus at the same corresponding stage in the cycle as when they were frozen.
The ‘natural method’, which we recommend, relies on the woman’s ability to produce her own egg (ovulate). This leads to the natural production of the female hormone oestrogen, which in turn thickens the endometrium necessary for implantation. Of course, not every woman has the ability to ovulate naturally, and a small dose of stimulatory hormone may be required in those cases. Another method used for women who have difficulty ovulating is the ‘artificial method’, where oestrogen tablets or patches are used to develop the endometrium artificially rather than relying on the woman’s own natural hormone.
Ultrasound scans are used to monitor the FER cycle irrespective of the method used. With the natural method, an ovulation prediction test is often recommended to complement the scans. The embryos are thawed and replaced into the uterus at the same corresponding stage in the cycle as when they were frozen.
|
