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Tuesday 09 June 2026
Salisbury Foundation Trust

Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

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What is Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)?Ìý

The procedure for Frozen-thawed Embryo Transfer (FET) isÌýsimilar toÌýthe procedure for fresh embryo transfer. Frozen embryos from a previous fresh IVF are thawed and then transferred back into the woman’s uterus. First, the embryo(s) is thawed. Next, the consultant loads a catheter with the embryo(s). Transvaginal ultrasound is used to guide the placement of the catheter through the cervix and into the uterus.Ìý

How does it work?Ìý

The treatment plan will depend on the number of embryos you have in storage, your medical history, your age, the number of embryos which you could have transferred and your own wishes. Once you have decided what you would like to do your treatment is planned by one of our fertility nurses.

The treatment cycle involves using drugs to suppress the natural activity of the ovaries followed by preparation of the endometrium with oestrogen tablets. If your endometrium shows a suitable response to theÌýhormonesÌýwe add in a second hormone to mature the endometrium. You would normally have two scans during the treatment. The embryologists will thaw the embryosÌýin accordance withÌýyour plan, and then you are ready for the transfer to take place.Ìý

Who is it suitable for?Ìý

If after a fresh IVF treatmentÌýcycleÌýyou have embryos that have been frozen (cryo-preserved), you can decide to use these in a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) cycle. If you have had embryos created and frozen due to a past medical condition or due to concerns about yourÌýageÌýthen a Frozen Embryo Transfer cycle might be the nextÌýappropriate stepÌýfor you. We also welcome patients who have had embryos created and frozen at other clinics who wish to move their embryos to Salisbury Fertility Centre to complete a Frozen Embryo Transfer cycle with us.Ìý

Our staff at ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ have long been well regarded for the quality of care and treatment they provide for our patients and for their innovation, commitment and professionalism. This has been recognised in a wide range of achievements and it is reflected in our award of NHS Foundation Trust status. This is afforded to hospitals that provide the highest standards of care.

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ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ, ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ, Odstock Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 8BJ
T: 01722 336262 E: sft.pals@nhs.net
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