If you have frozen embryos from a previous IVF cycle or from a fertility preservation cycle, you can have a frozen embryo transfer when you are ready to try to get pregnant. Frozen embryo transfers are similar to a fresh IVF cycle, except that the step of retrieving the eggs, fertilizing the eggs, and allowing the embryos to develop has already been completed. One of the biggest advantages of a frozen embryo transfer is that the cost is much lower than the cost of a full IVF cycle.‍

How Frozen Embryo Transfers Work

‍A frozen embryo cycle will typically include the following steps:

• Examining the uterus to ensure that there are no abnormalities that could prevent pregnancy
• Administering Lupron, estrogen, and progesterone to prevent ovulation and mature the uterine lining
• Thawing the embryos
• Transferring the embryos to the uterus

Embryos can be transferred in any cycle if the woman is ready to do so. On the first day of bleeding during her period, the woman will call the clinic; shortly after, she will arrive to begin medication. The timing of a frozen embryo cycle is more flexible than with a fresh IVF cycle, and it is not until after the progesterone shot is administered that there are strict guidelines for when the embryo must be transferred.

Managing Cost of Frozen Embryo Transfer

The cost of a frozen embryo transfer is much less than the cost of a full IVF cycle, a fact that makes embryo freezing an attractive option. However, the cost of treatment is still significant, because laboratory work and a medical procedure are still required. Medication is usually the least expensive part of a frozen embryo transfer cycle. In some cases, it is possible to perform the frozen embryo cycle without medication, but this is trickier to time and perform.

You can take several steps to manage the cost of this procedure. In some cases, your insurance may cover the cost, in which case your out of pocket costs will depend on the terms of your insurance coverage. If you cannot pay the entire cost of the procedure at once, you can apply for financing through a patient financing company or through another resource. Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your infertility. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call (630) 357-6540.