Preparing for Your FET: What to Know Before the Big Day
A frozen embryo transfer (FET) is a significant milestone in your fertility journey. Whether it’s your first transfer or a return visit, understanding what to expect and how to prepare can help you feel more confident and supported throughout the process.
At Tennessee Fertility Institute (TFI), we believe informed patients are empowered patients. Here’s what you should know as you get ready for your FET.
What Is a Frozen Embryo Transfer?
A frozen embryo transfer involves thawing one or more previously frozen embryos and placing them into the uterus at the optimal time in your cycle. FETs are commonly used after a prior in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, when embryos were frozen for future use, or as part of a fertility preservation plan.
Types of FET Protocols
Your care team will determine the best protocol for your body and your goals. The three most common types of FET protocols include:
1. Natural Cycle FET
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Used when a patient has regular menstrual cycles
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The embryo transfer is timed to the body’s natural ovulation
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Minimal or no medications are used
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Monitoring includes bloodwork and ultrasounds to track ovulation
2. Medicated (Hormone Replacement Therapy) FET
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Estrogen and progesterone are used to prepare the uterine lining
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Ovulation is suppressed and the timing is controlled
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Ideal for patients with irregular cycles or certain medical conditions
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Offers more scheduling flexibility
3. Modified Natural Cycle FET
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A hybrid approach using minimal medication to support or trigger ovulation
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Often includes a trigger shot to time ovulation precisely
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Useful when natural cycles are mostly regular but need slight support
Your provider will guide you through the protocol that best supports your uterine environment and embryo timing.
What Happens in the Lab Before My Transfer?
While you're preparing your body, our embryology team is preparing your embryo. Here's what happens behind the scenes:
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Thawing: The embryo is carefully warmed using a precise protocol to ensure cell integrity.
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Assessment: Embryologists evaluate the embryo’s survival and quality post-thaw.
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Timing: The embryo is transferred at a time that aligns with your uterine receptivity, based on your protocol and hormone levels.
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Documentation and Safety: Every embryo is tracked with multiple identifiers and handled under strict lab protocols to ensure safety and accuracy.
Our lab uses state-of-the-art vitrification and warming techniques, and every step is double-checked by trained embryologists.
How Should I Prepare for My FET?
1. Follow Your Medication Protocol
Your care team will provide a personalized medication plan to prepare your body for transfer. This may include:
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Estrogen to help build the uterine lining
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Progesterone to support implantation
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Bloodwork and ultrasounds to monitor your cycle
It’s important to take medications exactly as prescribed and attend all scheduled monitoring appointments. These steps help ensure your body is ready for the embryo transfer at just the right time.
2. Support Your Overall Wellness
While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, taking care of your physical and emotional health can support your treatment:
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Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
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Stay hydrated
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Get regular, gentle movement (like walking or stretching)
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Prioritize rest and sleep
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Consider stress-reducing practices like meditation, journaling, or acupuncture
If you have questions about lifestyle choices during this time, your care team is always available to guide you.
3. Plan for Transfer Day
The embryo transfer itself is a quick and generally painless procedure, similar to a Pap smear. You’ll be awake the entire time, and no anesthesia is required.
Here’s what to expect:
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You may be asked to arrive with a moderately full bladder to help with ultrasound guidance
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The embryo is gently placed into the uterus using a thin catheter
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You’ll rest briefly afterward before heading home
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and arranging for a calm, low-stress day following your transfer.
What Can I Expect After the Transfer?
The “Two-Week Wait”
This is the period between your transfer and your pregnancy test (usually 9–14 days later). It can be emotionally challenging, and it’s normal to feel anxious or uncertain.
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Avoid overanalyzing symptoms—many are caused by medications
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Stay connected to your support system
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Focus on activities that bring calm and distraction
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Reach out to your care team with any concerns
Activity Guidelines
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Most patients can resume normal daily activities
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Avoid high-impact exercise, hot tubs, and anything your provider advises against
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Continue taking medications as prescribed
When to Test
Your care team will schedule a beta hCG blood test to confirm pregnancy. Home pregnancy tests are not recommended during this time, as medications can affect results.
Final Thoughts
A frozen embryo transfer is a blend of science, timing, and hope. At Tennessee Fertility Institute, we’re here to guide you through every step—from protocol planning to lab preparation to post-transfer support.
If you have questions about your upcoming transfer or want to better understand your protocol, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re honored to be part of your journey.
New to TFI?
If you're just beginning your fertility journey and want to learn more about frozen embryo transfers or other treatment options, we’d love to meet you. Schedule a consultation with one of our fertility specialists to explore your options and take the first step toward building your family!