Blastocyst Transfer: Why Embryologists Prefer Blastocysts?

Blastocyst transfer is an important part of the IVF process. There are many couples who don’t know what this really means. Additionally, some people wonder why doctors wait a few extra days before transferring the embryo and how it makes any difference. So, today we will explain everything in this blog step by step.

At Risaa IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi, a senior IVF specialist and gynaecologist has over 35 years of experience. She helps couples to understand every part of their treatment simply. Our team of experts, including trained embryologists, plans each embryo transfer to give the best chance of pregnancy. In this blog, we will explain what blastocyst transfer is, why embryologists often prefer it, and more.

What is a Blastocyst?

A blastocyst is an embryo that has grown for about 5 to 6 days after fertilization. It is more developed than an early embryo, which is usually seen on day 2 or 3. By this stage, the cells have increased in number and started to form two parts. One that becomes the baby and the other that becomes the placenta.

The blastocyst has a thin outer layer, a fluid-filled center, and a group of cells inside called the inner cell mass. This structure means the embryo is now strong and ready to attach to the uterus and this is an important step to start a pregnancy.

What is Blastocyst Transfer in IVF?

Blastocyst transfer in IVF means placing a 5- or 6-day-old embryo (called a blastocyst) into the woman’s uterus. In the IVF process, eggs are collected and fertilized in a lab. These fertilized eggs grow into embryos. Instead of transferring them on day 2 or 3, doctors wait and let the embryos grow until day 5 embryo transfer and until they become blastocysts.

This extra time helps doctors to choose the healthiest and strongest embryos for transfer. A blastocyst is more developed and that gives it a better chance of attaching to the uterus and starting a successful pregnancy.

Why Do Embryologists Prefer Blastocyst Transfer?

Embryologists prefer blastocyst transfer because it gives a better idea of which embryos are strong and healthy. When embryos grow in the lab until day 5 or 6, only the ones that are developing well will reach the blastocyst stage. This helps doctors to choose the best ones for transfer.

In simple words, embryologists prefer blastocyst IVF because:

• It helps to select the most developed and healthy embryos
• The timing matches the body’s natural process
• It may increase the chances of successful pregnancy
• It lowers the risk of transferring weak or slow-growing embryos
• Blastocyst stage embryo reduces the need to transfer multiple embryos and also lowers the chance of twins or triplets

Who is a Good Candidate for Blastocyst Transfer?

Blastocyst transfer works best for people who have several healthy embryos by day 3. If your embryos are growing well then the doctor may wait until day 5 or 6 to choose the strongest one to transfer. This can help to increase the chance of pregnancy.

You may consider a blastocyst IVF if:

• You have many healthy embryos on day 3
• You’re below 35 and have good egg quality
• You had failed IVF cycles before
• You want to transfer just one embryo
• You’re planning to freeze embryos or do genetic testing

Blastocyst Transfer Success Rate

The success rate of blastocyst IVF is often higher than early embryo transfers done on day 2 or 3. This is because during blastocyst culture, embryos are carefully grown in the lab for 5 to 6 days. Only the healthiest ones reach the blastocyst stage, which helps doctors to select the best embryo for transfer.

These embryos have a better chance of attaching to the uterus and starting a pregnancy. There are many clinics that report higher pregnancy rates, especially in younger women with good egg quality.

Blastocyst Transfer Benefits

Blastocyst IVF has many advantages for couples who are going through IVF. Since the embryo is grown for 5 to 6 days in the lab, doctors can clearly see which ones are growing well. This helps them to choose the best quality embryo for transfer and this can improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Here are some key benefits of embryo transfer including:

• Better selection of strong and healthy embryos
• Higher chances of implantation and pregnancy
• Lower chances of multiple pregnancies (when one embryo is transferred)
• More natural timing with the uterine environment
• Helpful for planning embryo freezing or genetic testing

Possible Risks of Blastocyst Transfer

Blastocyst culture has many benefits but there are also a few risks. Not all embryos grow to the blastocyst stage, so some patients may end up with fewer or no embryos for transfer. This may not work well for those who have fewer eggs or slower-growing embryos.

Here are some possible risks of Blastocyst IVF including:

• Some embryos may stop growing before day 5
• Fewer embryos available for freezing
• May not suit women who have low egg count
• Risk of having no embryo to transfer
• Needs a skilled lab and proper monitoring

Final Words

Blastocyst transfer has become a perfect choice in many IVF treatments because it helps to select the healthiest embryos and often leads to better pregnancy results. However, it’s important to remember that every couple is different and the right approach depends on your medical condition and embryo development.

At Risaa IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist) and her expert team carefully guide couples through each step of IVF, including deciding whether a blastocyst transfer is right for them. If you have questions or want to start your IVF journey, feel free to reach out to us. Call 95555 44421/22/23 or email at [email protected] for trusted support and care.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Is blastocyst transfer safe?

Yes, it is a safe procedure when done by experienced IVF doctors and labs.

• Is blastocyst transfer better than day 3 transfer?

In many cases, yes. Blastocyst transfer can lead to higher success rates because the embryo is more mature and likely to implant well.

• Does blastocyst transfer increase chances of twins?

Not if only one blastocyst is transferred. Doctors usually suggest single embryo transfer to avoid multiple pregnancies.

• Who should consider blastocyst transfer?

It is often suggested for women with good egg quality and enough embryos on day 3 to allow extended culture.

• What are the chances of success with blastocyst transfer?

Success rates are generally higher, especially in women under 35 with good-quality embryos. But results vary from person to person.

• Is rest needed after blastocyst transfer?

Normal activities can be continued, but doctors may suggest light rest on the day of transfer.