A frozen embryo transfer (FET) is the process of thawing one of your stored embryos and transferring it into the uterus. It is a less intensive treatment than a full IVF cycle and represents excellent value in both cost and effort.
For many patients, FET is the treatment that ultimately results in a successful pregnancy.
When embryos have been frozen – either following IVF, after PGT-A testing, or as part of a freeze-all strategy – they can be used in a FET cycle. The uterus is prepared with medication to create the optimal environment for implantation, and the thawed embryo is transferred in a straightforward, usually painless procedure.
FET is considerably less costly than a full IVF cycle – see our pricing page for full details.
Natural FET: suitable for women who ovulate regularly; this approach monitors your natural cycle and performs the transfer around the time of ovulation without stimulation medication.
Medicated FET: oestrogen is used to build the uterine lining, followed by progesterone to prepare for transfer. This offers greater control over timing and is suitable for most patients.
Your consultant will recommend the most appropriate protocol based on your cycle history and individual circumstances.
Before your FET cycle, you will have a consultation to review your frozen embryos, discuss the protocol most suitable for you and plan your cycle.
In a medicated cycle, oestrogen tablets or patches are taken to grow the uterine lining. A scan checks the thickness and appearance of the lining before progesterone is added.
On the day of transfer, your embryo is thawed in the laboratory. Survival rates with modern vitrification are very high.
The thawed embryo is transferred into the uterus through a thin catheter. The procedure takes just a few minutes and is generally painless. You can go home the same day.
A pregnancy test is performed 10–12 days after transfer. Your nurse will support you throughout the two-week wait and beyond.
Aria was founded by fertility professionals, which means every decision is driven by what is best for patients. You will have a dedicated consultant overseeing your care, supported by our team of highly experienced embryologists and nurses, to ensure you receive personalised, compassionate care.
Our laboratory was one of the first in the UK to use AI-assisted embryo selection, and our single-embryo transfer rate and multiple-pregnancy rate (currently 3.7%) reflect our commitment to safe, evidence-based care. We are regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and publish our results transparently.
Our Marylebone clinic offers a calm, unhurried environment and personalised support from the first appointment to the final outcome.
Fertility treatment is a significant financial commitment, and we believe in being transparent about what that means from the outset.
Costs vary depending on your individual treatment plan, the investigations required, and whether additional procedures are recommended. When comparing prices between clinics, it’s worth ensuring you have a full breakdown of all components – consultation fees, monitoring scans, medication, and laboratory costs can vary considerably and are not always included in headline figures.
At Aria, we will discuss the expected costs during your initial consultation and provide you with a fully costed treatment plan before we start, so there are no surprises along the way.
The questions below are intended to give you a clear and honest overview. For advice specific to your situation, we always recommend booking a consultation with one of our team.
What does a frozen embryo transfer involve?
A frozen embryo transfer (FET) is the process of thawing a previously frozen embryo and transferring it to the uterus. It is performed after a period of uterine preparation with medication and is significantly less intensive than a full IVF stimulation cycle.
How successful is frozen embryo transfer?
FET success rates are broadly comparable to fresh embryo transfer, and in some cases may be slightly higher. Your consultant will give you a personalised expectation based on embryo quality and your history.
Is FET painful?
No. Embryo transfer is generally painless and takes only a few minutes. Most patients describe it as similar to a cervical smear. No sedation is required.
How long does a FET cycle take?
A medicated FET cycle typically takes three to four weeks from starting medication to transfer. This is considerably shorter and less physically demanding than a full IVF cycle.
What should I do after embryo transfer?
There are no strict rules, but we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise and alcohol, taking any prescribed medication as directed, and trying to manage stress as best you can. Most patients can return to work and normal light activities the following day.
What if my embryo does not survive the thaw?
With vitrification, the vast majority of embryos survive the thaw process. In the rare event that an embryo does not survive, we will discuss your remaining embryos and options with you. This will not result in a charge for the transfer itself.
What happens if I’ve had an unsuccessful FET?
If a frozen embryo transfer hasn’t worked, we’ll arrange a review consultation to talk through what happened and your options. For patients who have experienced repeated FET failures, we may discuss additional investigations, such as an endometrial receptivity analysis (ERA) or a hysteroscopy, to help understand whether anything could be optimised before your next transfer. Whether these are appropriate for you is something we’ll assess individually with your consultant.
Where is Aria Fertility?
We are located at 8 Welbeck Way, Marylebone, London W1G 9YL – a short walk from Bond Street Underground station. The clinic is deliberately discreet and calm, situated in a quiet mews in the heart of London’s medical district.
When you are ready and the time is right for you, the next step is to contact us, and we will help you arrange a face-to-face, telephone or video-call introduction with one of our consultants.
You can do this by filling in the contact form below or by calling one of our friendly team members on +44 (0) 203 263 6025.
We really look forward to getting to know you and helping guide you toward your next steps toward your dream family.