An IVF transfer places the frozen embryo in the female partner’s (or surrogate) uterus. In order to do this, medication is generally taken to simulate a menstrual cycle. The embryo would be transferred to the female partner’s uterus 5 days after ovulation. The time commitment for this type of cycle is generally a once-a-week visit to the fertility clinic for bloodwork and ultrasound.  
 
Following the transfer of the frozen embryo, bloodwork is taken about 9 days later (this would be 4 weeks pregnant) to confirm pregnancy. If pregnant, the medication is continued until around 12 weeks pregnant. At this time, care proceeds the same as any other pregnancy.  
 
Unfortunately, not every embryo will lead to a viable pregnancy. After a failed transfer, your provider may recommend diagnostic tests to determine the cause of any issues. Diagnostic tests like a saline-infused sonogram (SIS) or hysteroscopy are common tests to determine if any issues with the lining of the uterus may have caused implantation failure. Another common test looks at endometrial receptivity (ERA) to determine if the embryo is being transferred at the optimal time. Your healthcare provider may also consider a different type of transfer cycle. Not everyone responds the same hormonally to all of the transfer protocols. Adjustments will likely need to be made based on past responses.