Embryo adoption allows you to give birth to your adopted child. If you are new to the concept of this unique adoption choice, you may be wondering how you become pregnant with the embryos in the first place. The answer is called a frozen embryo transfer (FET).

In a nutshell, an FET is the transfer of a previously frozen embryo into the womb. (Remaining embryos are cryo-preserved in liquid nitrogen, so they are able to be used for future family building purposes.) According to Shady Grove Fertility, an FET begins with a pre-medication ultrasound to ensure there are no cysts or other structural problems that may deter the transfer process. Once the mother is cleared for the transfer, she will take medication to optimize the lining of the uterus for implantation. The adoptive mother may be given estrogen and progesterone injections every three days for up to 2 to 3 weeks, and subsequently the uterine lining is checked by post-medication ultrasound.

I know—it sounds overwhelming. But fear not! The FET process is actually very simple and straightforward compared to preparing for an IVF cycle, where medication may need to be taken every day. In addition, an invasive medical procedure needs to be undergone to extract the eggs for the IVF cycle.

In regard to cost, an FET procedure, including medications, can be anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000.

Just one cycle of in vitro fertilization may cost $15,000 – $20,000+.

If you have specific questions about the FET, talk to your reproductive endocrinologist at the clinic your embryo adoption agency is partnered with. You may also find this video helpful, as well.

To learn more about embryo adoption and donation, visit EmbryoAdoption.org.

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