After months of anticipation, countless medical appointments, and emotional ups and downs, you’re finally on the brink of one of the most important moments in your surrogacy journey — your first embryo transfer. It’s a moment filled with hope, excitement, and perhaps a touch of nervousness.
What exactly can you expect during this pivotal procedure, and how can you best prepare for it?
We’re glad you asked.
Embryo Transfer: What It Is and How It Works
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of what happens during the embryo transfer, let’s talk about what it actually is. This step marks the end of your IVF process. It’s where the magic happens — one or more embryos are carefully placed into your uterus with the goal of kickstarting a successful pregnancy. It’s a detailed process that calls for precision and a healthy dose of optimism.
What You Can Expect During Your Embryo Transfer
As the big day approaches, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. That’s totally normal. Here’s what to expect when it’s time for your embryo transfer:
When you’ll have the embryo transfer: The fertility clinic will monitor the development of the embryos as well as the development of your uterine lining and determine the best time for embryo transfer. Usually this decision is based on factors such as embryo quality and the intended parent’s or donor’s medical history and the surrogate’s monitoring clinic results.
Getting ready for the procedure: Leading up to your embryo transfer, you’ll likely be asked to drink plenty of water and arrive with a full bladder. This helps the medical team get a clear view of the uterus during the procedure, making it easier to place those precious embryos just right.
When you arrive at the clinic: Once you’re at the fertility clinic, a team of caring professionals will greet you. They are there to guide you through every step of the process.
Prepping the embryos: An embryologist will carefully thaw or prepare the embryos for transfer, making sure they’re ready for implantation.
The embryo transfer itself: During the procedure, you’ll lie back on an examination table, kind of like during a regular pelvic exam. Using a special tool called a speculum to gently open up the vaginal canal, your fertility specialist will guide a thin catheter through the cervix and into the uterus. That’s where the embryos come in — they are carefully placed into the uterine cavity, where they’ll hopefully find their new home and start growing into a baby.
What you’ll feel: Most women describe the embryo transfer as uncomfortable at worst, less so than a pap smear or menstrual cramps. It’s normal to experience mild cramping or spotting afterward, but severe pain is rare and should be reported to your healthcare provider.
Taking a rest: After the embryos are transferred, you’ll want to take it easy for a few days before getting back to your usual routine. Some clinics might suggest bed rest or limited activity, while others might say you’re good to go right away. Follow your doctor’s recommendations to give those embryos the best chance possible.
Preparing Yourself Mentally and Emotionally
In addition to all the physical parts, it’s important to get your head and heart in the right place for your embryo transfer. Here are a few ways to do that:
Stay positive: It’s easier said than done sometimes but try to keep a positive outlook and visualize those embryos in your uterus. Surround yourself with supportive people who can lift you up when you need it most.
Relax: Find ways to zone out and de-stress leading up to the big day. Whether it’s deep breathing, meditation, journaling, taking a walk outside, or something else, do whatever helps you feel calm and centered.
Keep the lines of communication open: Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions or voice any concerns you might have. Your surrogacy agency and fertility clinic are there to help you through this process every step of the way.
Your first embryo transfer is a big moment, but you’ve got this. By knowing what to expect and taking care of yourself both physically and emotionally, you’re setting yourself up for success. Here’s to an embryo transfer that leads to a healthy pregnancy!
Keep learning. Explore our additional resources:
- What is the Surrogacy Process? A Step-By-Step Guide
- How Does a Surrogate Mother Get Pregnant?
- What Role Does IVF Play in Gestational Surrogacy?
Surrogacy and Egg Donor Services
Since 2004, The Fertility Agency has helped bring over 1100+ babies into the world. We work with all intended parents, surrogates, and egg donors no matter their sexual preference, relationship status, ethnicity, location, etc. Our personal experiences and years of expertise provide us with the perfect balance of business and passion. Contact us for more information.
