FAQ

Embryo Transfer

How is the embryo transfer procedure performed?

Embryo transfer is simple, painless, and takes about 5–10 minutes. A thin catheter is used to place the selected embryo(s) into the uterus under ultrasound guidance. No anesthesia is required.

Is there a difference between Day 3 and Day 5 embryo transfers?

Yes. Day 3 embryos are transferred at the “cleavage stage,” while Day 5 embryos (blastocysts) are more developed. Many patients prefer blastocyst transfer as it often improves implantation rates, but the choice depends on embryo quality and your doctor’s recommendation.

How many embryos are usually transferred?

In the UAE, the number depends on your age, medical history, and embryo quality. Often, a single high-quality embryo is recommended to minimize the risk of twins or triplets.

Do I need to rest after embryo transfer?

You can resume daily activities immediately. Light movement is fine, but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. Strict bed rest is not required.

Can I choose the gender of my baby during IVF in the UAE?

Yes, gender selection (family balancing) is legally permitted in the UAE for medical and family planning reasons. PGTA (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy) can also be performed at the same time to check embryo chromosomes.

What if I have endometriosis, PCOS, or OHSS risk?

Your doctor will tailor the stimulation and embryo transfer plan to your condition. For example, women at risk of OHSS may benefit from freezing all embryos and having a frozen embryo transfer later.

What is a frozen embryo transfer (FET)?

In an FET cycle, embryos that were previously frozen are thawed and transferred to the uterus. The lining is prepared with medication to maximize implantation chances. FET is safe, widely used, and has pregnancy rates similar to or better than fresh transfers.

Will IVF guarantee pregnancy?

No treatment can guarantee a baby, but IVF provides the highest success rates available, especially with advanced techniques.

What is PGT-A?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer. This reduces miscarriage risk and improves implantation rates, especially in women over 35 or those with recurrent miscarriage and male factor problems.

Can we choose the gender of our baby?

Yes. In the UAE, gender selection is permissible for family balancing, as well as for medical reasons such as avoiding sex-linked disorders.

I have endometriosis – can IVF still help me?

Yes. IVF is often recommended, especially in moderate or severe endometriosis. Protocols can be tailored to maximise egg quality and implantation.

How does PCOS affect IVF?

Women with PCOS respond strongly to fertility drugs and may be at higher risk of OHSS. Careful monitoring and personalised stimulation protocols at Fakih IVF help achieve excellent outcomes.

What is OHSS?

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome is when ovaries respond too strongly to medication. At Fakih IVF, strategies such as using safer 'trigger' injections and freeze-all cycles minimise this risk.

What is social egg freezing?

This allows women to freeze eggs at a younger age, preserving fertility for future use. It is suitable for women who are not ready to start a family yet due to personal, medical, or career reasons.

Can unmarried women freeze their eggs?

Yes. Egg collection for unmarried women is legally permitted in the UAE. At Fakih IVF, we are proud to be the only centre in the country offering a unique minimally invasive technique that takes just 5–10 minutes and ensures virginity is preserved.

This method is very different from the traditional laparoscopic approach, which is more invasive, carries higher risks, and requires longer recovery. Our technique is gentle, safe, and effective, making it possible for unmarried women to freeze their eggs without the added risks of surgery.