Should We Transfer One Or Two Embryos?
Transferring more than one embryo will increase the likelihood that at least one embryo will implant
Whether created through intercourse, artificial insemination, or In Vitro Fertilization, the majority of human embryos do not have the potential to hatch out and implant successfully.
In the U.S., there are no laws limiting the number of embryos to be transferred. However, at Bay IVF, we adhere to the recommendation of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, which suggests that most patients should consider transferring only one or two embryos.
There is no “crowding” effect inside the uterus. If you choose to transfer two embryos, the probability of achieving a live birth is higher compared to transferring just one embryo. However, it’s important to note that transferring two embryos increases the chances of a twin pregnancy.
It is well-known that a singleton pregnancy carries the lowest risk for both the mother and the newborn. Therefore, delivering a full-term, healthy singleton is considered the best outcome following assisted reproductive technology treatments such as IVF.
The decision on the number of embryos to be transferred is typically finalized during the embryo transfer visit at our clinic. At that time, we will have information about the number of embryos available for transfer and their quality assessment. This allows us to estimate the probability of a successful outcome with one or two embryos transferred. Additionally, we will provide information about the approximate risk of a twin pregnancy if you choose to transfer two embryos.
With the advancement of highly reliable embryo vitrification (cryopreservation), many patients now choose to transfer only one embryo at a time.
While we will provide guidance on how many embryos to transfer, the final decision will be yours, and you can choose to transfer either one or two embryos.
Meet Your Doctor
- Dr. Polansky received his medical diploma from Charles University in Prague, the Czech Republic, in 1978.
- After completing his OB/GYN residency at Jewish Hospital in Saint Louis, MO, he graduated from the Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) fellowship at Stanford University in 1985.
- In the same year, he co-founded the Stanford IVF Clinic.
- Dr. Polansky obtained board certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology in 1986 and became REI subspecialty board certified in 1988.
- In 1987, he left Stanford University and established Nova IVF.
- In 2011, he founded Bay IVF, where he provides advanced fertility treatments with a holistic approach, utilizing state-of-the-art techniques.
- Dr. Polansky personally performs ultrasound examinations, egg retrievals, embryo transfers, and ovarian and endometrial stimulations for his patients.
- He is deeply committed to his patients and freely shares his cell phone number, ensuring accessibility and availability 24/7.
Frank Polansky, M.D.
Initial Appointment Questions
When you call to schedule your consultation, one of our Front Office Coordinators will ask you a short series of questions regarding your reproductive history.
Your Initial Visit at Bay IVF
Attending a new patient appointment at a fertility clinic can be stressful. Our primary objective is to ensure that your initial visit is friendly and relaxing. We encourage you to ask questions at every step of the process.
1 — When You Arrive
You will be welcomed by one of the clinic receptionists. One of our nurses will measure your height and weight and take your blood pressure
2 — Meet Your Doctor
Dr. Polansky will ask you a series of clarifying questions and then provide you with a summary of the factors contributing to your infertility
4 — Exam Room
One of the nurses will escort you to an examination room. Your examination will begin with listening to your lungs and heart
3 — Ask Your Questions
You will then have a discussion with him about the most suitable reproductive treatment(s) for you. During this time, you will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have
5 — Ultrasound of the Ovaries
The next step is a pelvic ultrasound to examine the uterus and ovaries. This ultrasound will help determine the number of antral follicles present within the ovaries
6 — Financial Part
Following that, you will have a discussion with one of the financial advisors regarding the financial aspects of your treatment, including potential treatment financing options
8 — Support 24/7
If you have any questions after leaving the clinic, please feel free to reach out to us via phone call, text, or email. Open and discreet communication is an integral part of the care we provide at Bay IVF
7 — What About Time?
Your entire visit is expected to last approximately one hour
Schedule Your Initial Consultation With Dr. Polansky
Online (free) or In-Person
Call or Text Us: 650-322-0500
You can also complete the form below to request your initial consultationWe look forward to meeting you at Bay IVF and, when your treatment is successful, celebrating your new pregnancy!