The embryo transfer is usually the shortest step of the whole IVF process. Under ultrasound guidance, the doctor passes a soft catheter through the cervix and releases the embryo into the uterine cavity. It takes a few minutes, feels similar to a smear test, and needs no anaesthesia.
Fresh vs frozen
A "fresh" transfer happens a few days after egg retrieval in the same cycle. A "frozen" transfer (FET) uses an embryo frozen earlier, placed in a later cycle once the uterine lining has been prepared — often with estrogen and progesterone. Both are routine; the right choice depends on the individual cycle.
Afterward
Normal daily activity can resume — strict bed rest doesn't improve success and isn't recommended. Progesterone support continues, and a pregnancy blood test follows about two weeks later. I cover the practical do's and don'ts in my guide on precautions after embryo transfer.