Over the first two decades of experience with in vitro fertilization (IVF), embryos were routinely cultured for two to three days in the laboratory, and then transferred to the uterus. This is quite different than when embryos normally enter the uterus (day 5 or 6). After two or three days of growth inside the body embryos are found in the fallopian tubes and may not be ready to enter the uterus. Recently, laboratory culture conditions have been improved so that embryos can develop to the blastocyst stage in the laboratory, and therefore be replaced into the uterus at the more “natural” time, Day 5 or 6 after fertilization.
The additional benefit of waiting longer to transfer embryos is reducing the number of embryos needed to be transferred to result in a viable pregnancy. By culturing embryos to the blastocyst stage we have more opportunity to choose the healthiest ones for transfer. So, optimal pregnancies rates may be obtained by transferring fewer embryos and reducing multiple pregnancy rates.
Why RMA of New York: Blastocyst Transfer
RMA of New York serves as the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Mount Sinai Medical System. Our laboratory team is dedicated to scientific discovery, graduate medical education through RMA of NY’s REI Fellowship Program, and individualized care that focuses on you.
Our team of embryologists are consistently recognized as innovators in reproductive science and medicine, and security and safety standards. RMA of New York has been at the forefront of embryo freezing technology and cutting-edge research, helping countless individuals and partners achieve the dream of building a family.
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