Fresh or Frozen Embryo Transfer in IVF?

In a Chinese trial, frozen embryo transfer was associated with higher rates of live birth but also large-for-gestational-age newborns and preeclampsia.

Many North American in vitro fertilization (IVF) programs transfer one fresh blastocyst embryo to reduce risk for multiple gestation. But which is better for live birth rates: fresh or frozen embryo transfer? Investigators in China conducted a study involving 1650 infertile couples who were randomized to transfer of one fresh blastocyst in the initial IVF cycle or cryopreservation of all embryos and transfer of one thawed blastocyst during a nonstimulated cycle. All women (age range, 20–35) had regular ovulatory cycles, indicating good prognosis for IVF success.

Frozen blastocyst transfer resulted in a higher live birth rate per cycle than did fresh blastocyst transfer (50% vs. 40%; relative risk, 1.3; P<0.0001). Pregnancy loss was similar i…

Reviewing Author

Robert L. Barbieri, MD

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNational Institutes of Health

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Robert L. Barbieri, MD

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNational Institutes of Health

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Fresh or Frozen Embryo Transfer in IVF?

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Reviewing Author