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What single embryo transfer means
Single embryo transfer means placing one embryo in the uterus during a transfer procedure. When the embryo is a blastocyst, it may be described as single blastocyst transfer.
The clinical discussion concerns how many embryos to transfer, not simply how many embryos have been created or stored. The number available in the laboratory and the number chosen for a procedure are different decisions.
Why the number matters
Transferring more than one embryo can increase the possibility of a multiple pregnancy. A twin or higher-order pregnancy carries additional maternal and newborn risks, including preterm birth and low birth weight, and may require more complex pregnancy care.
The goal of treatment is not to create a multiple pregnancy as a shortcut to completing a family. The treating team discusses embryo findings and the patient’s history when planning the transfer and considering the balance of benefit and risk.
The embryo findings form part of the decision
The laboratory record may include embryo-development stage, grade and the result of any planned genetic testing. These are different pieces of information. A grade is not a chromosome result, and a screening result is not a prediction of the complete pregnancy course.
Bring previous transfer records and follow-up findings to the consultation. The team can then discuss the current embryo options in the context of earlier care rather than apply another patient’s transfer plan.
One included transfer is a billing term
A package that includes one transfer describes an allowance for a procedure. It does not, by itself, define how many embryos are clinically appropriate to place during that procedure.
The approved PGT-A packages each include one transfer. Additional transfers are separately quoted. Ask the team to explain the treatment decision and the financial allowance as separate questions; a two-year retrieval plan is not an unlimited-transfer plan.
Questions for the transfer discussion
- Why is a particular number of embryos proposed for my history and current findings?
- What are the embryo-development and genetic findings being considered?
- What multiple-pregnancy risks should be discussed in my circumstances?
- If other embryos remain in storage, how would a later treatment be planned and quoted?
- What follow-up is needed after the procedure?
Read about fresh and frozen transfer, laboratory results and treatment fees.