A Blastocyst develops when an embryo reaches five days of development stage. At this stage, the embryo has a bunch of cells distributed in two areas: an outer embryo lining and an inner mass. In a natural cycle, the embryo reaches the Blastocyst stage in the uterus before implantation.

Two embryos are transferred in woman below the age of 40 and three embryos are transferred in women above 40.

Blastocyst transfer mimics a “natural” type of transfer than the Day 3 transfer procedure. This is because the Blastocyst embryo is implanted into the uterus at almost the same time that it would have entered the uterus should the pregnancy have been a natural one. Another important aspect is the grade of Blastocyst, if the Blastocyst is of a higher grade then the chances of success are better. Patients also opt for Blastocyst transfer as fewer embryos are required.

Some couples are more suited to Blastocyst transfer than others. You may be a good candidate for this type of transfer if:

• You have not had success with previous Day 3 transfers.
• You have a relatively good number of embryos to be monitored.
• If good quality embryos survive up to day 5 Decision comes after discussion with the embryologist and the doctor.