What is Blastocyst
Culture & Transfer?
Blastocyst Culture & Transfer is an advanced IVF technique where embryos are cultured in the laboratory until Day 5 before being transferred into the uterus. By this stage, the embryo has developed into a blastocyst, a more advanced and mature form containing 70–100 cells (compared to only 8–10 cells in a Day 3 embryo).
The Blastocyst Stage & Transfer?
At the blastocyst stage, the embryo has already divided into two distinct cell types:
This additional growth period allows embryologists to identify and select the embryos with the highest implantation potential for transfer.
Who is a Good Candidate for Blastocyst Culture?
Blastocyst culture is generally recommended if:
Blastocyst Culture & Transfer
The benefits of this technique include:
- Higher pregnancy rates, as blastocysts are less likely to be abnormal compared to earlier-stage embryos.
- Better embryo selection, since only the strongest embryos survive until Day 5.
- Lower risk of multiple pregnancies, as doctors typically transfer no more than two blastocysts.
- More natural timing, as the embryo normally reaches the uterus around Day 5 in a natural conception cycle.
- Excellent track record, with Thomson Fertility Centre achieving high clinical pregnancy rates using this method.
- Fertilisation
Eggs are collected and fertilised with sperm in the laboratory, similar to standard IVF. - Embryo Development
Instead of transferring the embryo on Day 2 or 3, the embryos are cultured in the lab until Day 5, when they reach the blastocyst stage. - Embryo Selection
The embryologist carefully selects the healthiest blastocysts for transfer. - Transfer to the Uterus
One or two blastocysts are placed directly into the uterus using a thin catheter. This quick and painless procedure maximises the chance of successful implantation.
- The transfer procedure itself is simple and minimally invasive, similar to a standard embryo transfer.
- Most patients can resume normal activities the same day.
- A pregnancy test will be scheduled about two weeks after transfer.
- Blastocyst transfer has been shown to improve pregnancy outcomes compared to earlier transfers.
- By transferring fewer but stronger embryos, the risk of multiple pregnancies (triplets or more) is reduced.
- Thomson Fertility has an excellent success record using blastocyst culture and transfer, helping many couples achieve healthy pregnancies
The cost varies depending on whether it is part of a standard IVF cycle or includes additional procedures such as genetic testing.
- Generally, blastocyst culture may add to the cost of IVF but can also increase success rates, potentially reducing the need for repeated cycles.
- Please speak with our Patient Careline for detailed pricing and package information.
Risks & Considerations
While blastocyst transfer is safe and effective, it is not always suitable for everyone:
