A frozen embryo transfer is a process in which one or more embryos are transferred to your body during your fertile period. Embryos are frozen primarily because a couple has more embryos than it wants to use at that time. Embryos may also be frozen if you develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome during the in vitro fertilization process and must recover from the effects of fertility drugs. In this case, you can try a frozen embryo transfer weeks or months after you have recovered. Spotting after a frozen embryo transfer is not uncommon.
Before the Transfer
A frozen embryo is a fertilized egg that has been frozen during the IVF process. You need to take birth control pills first to suppress your ovulation. The length of time you take the pills varies--it may be as little as two weeks or more than two months. You may also need to take other drugs such as lupron or another form of estrogen. Your cycle is then monitored to check that your body is developing a thick enough endometrial lining. The lining must be able to support the embryos.
Embryo Thawing
The embryos must be thawed before they can be placed in your body. The thawing process is slow and carefully controlled. First, the fertilized eggs must come to room temperature. Embryos have been frozen in liquid nitrogen at temperatures that reach nearly 200 degrees below zero. Once the embryos reach room temperature, they are washed in four different fluids to remove any remaining preservation material. The embryos are then are slightly heated until they reach a temperature approximating human body temperature.
Transfer Process
The thawed embryos are transferred back into your uterus via a catheter as part of an outpatient procedure. You will be awake, with no anesthesia. Decide in advance how many embryos you would like to transfer back. More than one may result in multiple births. Fewer than two may reduce your chances of a successful cycle.
Menstrual Spotting
Spotting is fairly common in menstrual cycles. Spotting consists of small drops of blood that can look brownish, pinkish or even red. Spotting is distinguished from a full period because it is much lighter. When you spot, you typically do not require a menstrual pad for protection. Spotting often happens as result of a drop in estrogen levels. The estrogen stimulates your uterus to create a lining for the baby. If your ovaries are not producing quite enough estrogen, this means a decreased lining. You may be prescribed more progesterone by your fertility specialist.
Spotting After Transfer
Spotting after an embryo transfer can be a sign of success or failure. A week after the transfer, you may experience spotting. This is very common. The embryo is burrowing in the lining. As a result, you may experience a slight drop in estrogen levels. Spotting can also be a sign that you are about to have your period. If you experience spotting, contact your reproductive endocrinologist (fertility doctor) as a precautionary measure. The doctor may doublecheck your estrogen levels.
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