Preparing for Your Embryo Transfer: What to Expect
Dr. Marika Raff • June 12, 2025
Embarking on the embryo transfer phase of your IVF journey is a big step, and understandably, patients often ask what they can expect during this important stage. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we take great care in preparing your body to create the most welcoming environment possible for a developing embryo.
Here’s an overview of how we prepare you for a frozen embryo transfer, including the medications we use and why they matter.
1. Estrogen Patches to Build the Uterine Lining
The first step in the preparation process involves thickening the endometrial lining of your uterus so it can support an embryo. We use estrogen patches for this purpose. These patches deliver a consistent dose of estrogen through your skin, and you’ll typically wear several patches on your abdomen at a time, changed every other day as instructed.
Estrogen helps your uterine lining grow to the ideal thickness for implantation. We monitor this closely with ultrasound to ensure optimal conditions.
2. Adding Intramuscular Progesterone
Once your lining has reached the right thickness, we introduce intramuscular progesterone injections. Progesterone transforms the uterine lining into a receptive state, mimicking what happens naturally after ovulation.
These injections are given daily and are an essential part of making the uterus ready to accept an embryo. While the thought of intramuscular shots can be intimidating, our team will guide you through every step and offer tips to make the process more comfortable.
3. Timing the Transfer
The timing of your embryo transfer is carefully coordinated based on your hormone levels and the day your embryo was frozen. For example, if you're transferring a blastocyst (an embryo that developed for five days), we schedule your transfer five days after starting progesterone.
Precision is key, and we tailor the timing to closely replicate the conditions of a natural cycle.
4. Day of the Transfer
The transfer itself is a quick, gentle procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia. We use ultrasound guidance to place the embryo in the uterus, and many patients describe it as similar to a Pap smear. Afterward, you’ll rest briefly before going home.
Supporting You Through Every Phase
Every part of the embryo transfer preparation is designed with care and intention. We want to give you the best possible chance for success, and we’re here to support you emotionally and physically throughout the process.
If you have any questions about preparing for your embryo transfer or the medications involved, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re with you every step of the way.
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