Frozen Embryo Transfer

What is a FET?

FET stands for Frozen Embryo Transfer. It is a procedure used in assisted reproductive technology where frozen embryos from a previous in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle are thawed and transferred into a woman's uterus.

One of the greatest advances in reproductive medicine in recent times has

How is it done?

Frozen embryos are thawed and transferred into the womb after suitable preparation of the lining of the womb.

As the embryos already exist, this cycle does not involve stimulation of your ovaries or egg collection.

A frozen embryo transfer cycle can be conducted any time after your initial treatment, provided you are both physically and emotionally ready for it.

been the improvement of our embryo freezing techniques. Now, embryos which were frozen in a previous cycle have a 95-97% chance of surviving the freeze/thaw techniques that we have in place in ReproMed and these thawed embryos have the same, if not better, pregnancy rates than the fresh ones.

Why would I have a Frozen Embryo Transfer?

The first reason why you would have a frozen embryo transfer is due to having surplus embryos for further attempts, if needed.

The second reason would be to reduce your own risk, this is because we have had to halt your cycle after the collection and freeze all the resul embryos in order to make sure that it is safe for you to get pregnant or to make sure the embryo enjoys the highest chances of implanting.

Sometimes this is because the medica tion we give you during the stimulation phase of your treatment has caused you to be somewhat “overstimulated”. In this scenario pregnancy would put you at risk of ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome (OHSS) which is a complication that could be potentially dangerous.

What is EmbryoGlue and how much does it cost?

Other times, there are situations that arise during the stimulation phase in which studies show that if we transfer an embryo, its chances of implanting are lower. Examples of these situations are an increase in the progesterone levels during the stimulation phase, the appearance of polyps or dilated and inflamed fallopian tubes (hydrosalpinx).

EmbryoGlue is a different type of culture media designed to mimic the environment where embryos would implant naturally. It is used with the intention of improving the adherence of the embryo to the uterus.

Even though the scientific evidence is still not completely in agreement that EmbryoGlue will improve pregnancy rates, studies do favour its use to the normal culture media.

EmbryoGlue is an additional €170.

Tell me what you actually do?

There are several ways to prepare for an FET. Some include the use of oestrogens to prepare the endometrium, via stimulation injections and others rely on the natural production of oestrogens.

Once it has been confirmed you can have treatment that month, you would typically commence your medications on the first few days of your cycle, you will then be asked to attend the clinic for an ultrasound scan, which is usually

When the lining has reached the desired thickness, progesterone is commenced, and the FET is planned on a specified date.

The number of embryos for transfer depends on several factors, such as your age, your embryo quality, and any previous treatment outcomes. This will be discussed with your treating doctor while they prepare your treatment plan for you, their aim is to achieve the highest chance of success for you while

What do I need to do when my period starts?

Once your period starts, you can contact the clinic on 0818 222 404, press option 2, between 8am – 4pm to inform us that your cycle has started or alternatively you can send us a portal message with the date and time your period started. Our co-ordination team will then advise you when to commence your medication and arrange your ultrasound scan.

Does it hurt?

No, it doesn't. The technique is very similar to a smear test, so just mildly uncomfortable.

It is performed under ultrasound guidance to improve the accuracy of embryo placement. You will be asked to attend your FET appointment with a comfortably full bladder as this will level the angle of the uterus and aid visualisation. A speculum is passed up the vagina to locate the cervix and then the embryo(s) are passed into a fine plastic transfer catheter in a droplet of culture medium and transferred into the middle of your endometrial uterine cavity.

How long can my embryos stay frozen?

The studies have disclosed that the embryos can technically be frozen or

cryopreserved for years. and that the quality of the embryo’s do not disintegrate over time.

How much does a Frozen Embryo Transfer cycle cost?

Our Frozen Embryo Transfer Cycle is €1,700.

This fee includes, cycle preparation, monitoring, embryo thaw & transfer and Beta HCG pregnancy test.

Important to Note !

Your full payment is due when you commence your cycle. If you did not have a fresh transfer carried out due to an elective freeze decision being made, there may be credit on your account and a lesser amount may be outstanding. Our accounts department will make this clear to you.

Frozen Embryo Transfer

Cycle Cancellation

If your cycle is cancelled during monitoring, you will be charged for the number of scans performed in that cancelled cycle, scans are charged at €160 per scan. Your FET payment will carry over to your next cycle.

If no embryo transfer is carried out, as a result of embryos failing to survive the thawing process, €550 is credited to your account.

Expected Costs

FET Cycle Cost - €1,700

EmbryoGlue ( Optional) - €170

Medication - €80 (Per month with DPS)

If you are a VHI member, you may be eligible for reduction of costs depending on your plan, a member of the support team will be able to advise you of your benefits.

We are partnered with:

ReproMed is a recognised training facility for medical and clinical students. If you have any issues or

concerns with the education of students during your treatment cycle, please inform one of our staff.

ReproMed Dublin

5th Floor Rockfield Medical Campus Northblock, Dundrum, Dublin 16, D16 W7W3

ReproMed Galway

Brooklawn House Galway West Business Park, Rahoon, Galway, H91 CRN2

ReproMed Cork

Unit 6, Classes Lake Retail Centre, Ovens, Co Cork, P31 HY36

ReproMed Drogheda ReproMed Kilkenny

Unit 2, 1st Floor, Dublin Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 EHOX Ayrfield