Undergoing IVF isa significant emotional and medical journey, and one key decision many patientsface is whether to choose a fresh embryo transfer or a frozen embryotransfer (FET). Both approaches aim to achieve pregnancy, but their success rates, benefits, and considerations can differ.
WhatAre Fresh and Frozen Transfers?
In a fresh embryo transfer, embryos are transferred a few days after egg retrieval in the same stimulation cycle. In contrast, frozen embryotransfers involve freezing (cryopreserving) embryos from a previous IVFcycle and transferring them in a later cycle, once the body has recovered andthe uterine lining is optimally prepared.
SuccessRate Comparisons
Current research shows that FET success rates are at least comparable to–andin many cases slightly higher than–fresh transfers. Many clinics report pregnancyand live birth rates with FET in the range of ~45–55%, with fresh transfersslightly lower in some studies.
A largerandomized trial also found that fresh transfers produced higher live birthrates in specific groups, such as low-prognosis women, indicating that contextmatters.
Why Frozen Transfers May Perform Better
With modern vitrification (rapid freezing) techniques, embryos survivethawing at high rates. FET cycles allow the uterus to be hormonally balancedand free from the high hormone levels used during ovarian stimulation. This canimprove implantation, reduce risks like ovarian hyperstimulation, and sometimesoffer slightly better per-cycle success.
When Fresh Might Be Preferable
Fresh transfer may be suitable when only a few embryos are available or whenimmediate transfer makes sense medically. Some data even suggest higherpregnancy rates in specific populations with fresh transfer.
Conclusion
Both fresh and frozen embryo transfers are valid IVF strategies, and neither isuniversally “better.” At Medfemme Women’s Clinic, we personalizerecommendations based on age, ovarian response, embryo quality and uterinehealth to optimize your chances of success.