About

Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

What is
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)?

Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) is a fertility treatment where an embryo created during a previous IVF cycle is frozen and later thawed for transfer into the uterus. Unlike fresh embryo transfer, which happens within the same week as egg retrieval, FET allows embryos to be preserved and transferred at a later, more suitable time.

Global studies show that IVF pregnancies resulting from FET are comparable to, and sometimes more successful than, fresh transfers. In fact, FET can provide a more natural environment for implantation and early pregnancy

Who is a Good Candidate for FET?

FET may be recommended for you if:

You had multiple embryos created during an IVF cycle and wish to use them in the future.
You experienced Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) during IVF and need to allow your hormone levels to stabilise before pregnancy.
You prefer to delay pregnancy for personal, medical, or logistical reasons.
You require genetic testing of embryos (PGT) before transfer.
You are planning a sibling pregnancy using embryos from a previous IVF cycle.

Advantages of FET Treatment

Some key benefits of FET include:

Higher pregnancy rates compared to some fresh transfers.
Lower miscarriage rates due to better timing and healthier uterine environment.
Reduced risk of OHSS, as hormone levels are allowed to return to normal before implantation.
Flexibility in family planning, as embryos can be stored and transferred when the time is right.
No need for repeated egg retrieval, since embryos are already available from the initial IVF cycle.

Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

Frozen Embryo Transfer Procedure

  • Cycle Preparation
    Your doctor will monitor your natural cycle or prescribe medications to prepare the uterine lining for implantation.
  • Thawing the Embryo
    The frozen embryo is carefully thawed in the laboratory by embryologists. Only healthy embryos are selected for transfer.
  • Embryo Transfer
    A thin catheter is inserted through the cervix, and the thawed embryo is placed directly into the uterus. This is a quick and painless procedure that usually takes only a few minutes.
  • Post-Transfer Care
    You may be advised to rest for a short while after the procedure, though most patients return to normal daily activities the same day.

What to Expect

  • The FET procedure is minimally invasive and does not require anaesthesia.
  • The entire process is usually completed within a week.
  • You may experience mild cramping or spotting, which is normal.
  • A pregnancy test is typically performed about 14 days after transfer to determine success.

FET Success Rates

  • FET success rates are similar to, and sometimes higher than, fresh embryo transfers.
  • Success depends on factors such as the woman’s age, embryo quality, and uterine health.
  • At advanced fertility centres like Thomson Fertility, FET procedures are performed using cutting-edge cryopreservation technology, ensuring high survival rates for thawed embryos.

FET Cost in Malaysia

The cost of a Frozen Embryo Transfer in Malaysia depends on your treatment plan and the number of embryos stored.

  • FET is generally more affordable than a full IVF cycle, since it does not require ovulation stimulation or egg retrieval.
  • Please contact our Patient Careline for up-to-date pricing and package details

FET Risks & Drawbacks

FET is a safe and widely used fertility treatment. However, some considerations include:

Embryo survival after thawing may vary, though modern freezing techniques (vitrification) have very high success rates.
Pregnancy is not guaranteed, and multiple attempts may be needed.
As with any fertility treatment, emotional and financial stress can be a factor.