Day 3 transfer in IVF refers to the process of transferring embryos into the uterus three days after egg retrieval and fertilization. At this stage, embryos are typically at the cleavage stage, meaning they have about 6–10 cells.
Why Day 3 Transfer?
Reproductive Endocrinologists (REs) might choose to do a Day 3 transfer based on several medical or logistical factors.
When REs Might Choose Day 3 Transfer:
Limited number of embryos:
If only a few embryos are developing, there may be no advantage to waiting until Day 5 (blastocyst stage).
Transferring earlier reduces the risk of embryos arresting before transfer.
Poor embryo quality or past cycle failures:
In cases where embryos have previously failed to make it to Day 5 in culture, REs might opt for an earlier transfer.
Uterine receptivity issues:
Some clinics believe the uterine environment might support embryo development better than the lab for certain patients.
Laboratory limitations:
Not all labs are equipped or optimized to culture embryos to Day 5 reliably.
Patient-specific factors:
Age, egg quality, history of implantation failure, or medical history may influence the decision.