Frequently Asked Questions

There are two types of embryo transfer: fresh or frozen. In a fresh embryo transfer cycle, an embryo is transferred to the uterus after 3-5 days of observation in the embryology laboratory, and any additional embryos are frozen for future use. In a frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle, all embryos are frozen after 3-5 days of development in the laboratory. If you wish to perform preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), embryos will be biopsied, then frozen while a culture of cells is sent to the genetic testing lab for analysis. Whether you proceed with a fresh embryo transfer or an FET, the embryo transfer process itself is very simple, and rarely requires sedation or anesthesia.

For the transfer procedure itself, the embryo is thawed at room temperature, and then warmed to body temperature (37° C). As with a fresh embryo transfer, embryos are placed inside a special catheter (a very thin tube), which is guided through the cervix and into the uterus. Embryos are gently injected into the uterus and the catheter is removed. This procedure requires no anesthesia, and is done in a position similar to a pelvic examination for a Pap smear. After transfer, the woman rests for 15 minutes and then is able to go home, where a day of rest or very gentle daily activity is recommended.

In general, the success of frozen-thawed embryo transfer procedures depends on three factors:

First, the quality and survival of the frozen-thawed embryos. Typically, only good quality embryos are frozen, resulting in a survival rate greater than 90%.

Second, the age of the woman who produced the eggs. In patients under the age of 37, the chances of pregnancy with frozen-thawed embryos are similar to a pregnancy with fresh embryos. In patients 37 years or older, pregnancy chances with frozen-thawed embryos decline in conjunction with declining fertility in general, but still can be quite good. As always it is best for patients to discuss their individual situation with their physician.

Third, the status of the uterus in the woman receiving the embryos. A healthy endometrial lining free of any interfering fibroids or polyps provides a sound environment for embryo implantation.

The adult photo that is submitted with your profile is used ONLY by the egg donor program team to match your physical characteristics with that of the potential recipient as the recipient usually desires a donor with similar physical attributes.

If you believe you meet the requirements for the Egg Donation Program at NYU Langone Fertility Center, fill out the Egg Donor Eligibility Form. You could make an important difference in a family's life.

Every patient experiences the egg retrieval process differently. For this procedure, you will be under general anesthesia while your eggs are retrieved by a physician, and may experience some discomfort afterwards. Most individuals are able to return to work the next day, while others may need additional time to recover.

Eggs are collected by vaginal, ultrasound-guided aspiration of ovarian follicles.

This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and intravenous (IV) sedation, using a specially designed needle to enter the ovarian follicles through the vaginal wall.

To prepare for egg retrieval, women undergo a series of injections of ovulation stimulating agents over approximately 10 days, including human gonadotropin and follicle stimulating hormone to stimulate multiple egg production.

A substance known as a “GNRH agonist” or Antagonist is used in conjunction with these drugs to reduce ovarian function. A Lupron injection is used to trigger ovulation and assists in the maturation process of the eggs prior to retrieval.

At NYU Langone Fertility Center, your care team will include your physician, our Donor Egg & Third Party Reproduction specialists, an onsite psychologist, and nurses, coordinators, medical and administrative assistants, all of whom are here to help you navigate every step of your journey to parenthood using donor eggs and/or sperm.

Yes, flex cards can be used as a payment method towards treatment if they have a Visa or MasterCard logo, expiration date and CVV code.