Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Blastocyst Transfer
Transfer of embryos at the blastocyst stage (day 5-6 of development) into the uterus.
Full Definition
Blastocyst transfer refers to the practice of culturing embryos in the laboratory for 5-6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage before transferring them to the uterus. This extended culture period allows for better embryo selection, as embryos that reach the blastocyst stage have demonstrated superior developmental potential. Blastocyst transfer is associated with higher implantation rates and allows for single embryo transfer while maintaining good pregnancy rates, thereby reducing the risk of multiple pregnancies.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the day of development when documenting blastocyst transfers (day 5 vs day 6).
In Context
- "The clinic's policy favors blastocyst transfer to improve single embryo transfer success rates." — protocol document
- "Two high-quality blastocysts were available for transfer on day 6." — embryology report
Also known as
day 5 transfer
extended culture transfer
Contrasted with
cleavage stage transfer
day 3 transfer
Don't confuse with
embryo transfer
fresh transfer