Fresh Transfer
An embryo is transferred to the uterus within days of the egg retrieval, during the same stimulated cycle. Shorter overall timeline; the uterine environment reflects the stimulated cycle.
Frozen Transfer (FET)
Embryos are cryopreserved after retrieval and transferred in a subsequent cycle after the uterine lining is prepared. Allows time for genetic testing, uterine optimization, and reduces certain hormonal peaks.
Considerations
- Genetic testing (PGT-A) typically requires freezing.
- Some patients have medical reasons to defer transfer (e.g., risk of ovarian hyperstimulation).
- Cumulative live-birth rates across fresh and subsequent frozen transfers are increasingly the most informative outcome metric.
Personalization
The choice depends on age, diagnosis, embryo count and quality, uterine factors, and prior cycle history. A specialist should discuss trade-offs specific to your case.