AZH

Should your embryos require assisted zona hatching (AZH), it will be performed immediately before the transfer.

You will be asked to change into a hospital gown, robe and slippers. Unlike the egg retrieval, anesthesia is not required for this procedure. The lack of anesthesia allows you the freedom to eat or drink as you choose on the morning of the procedure. The transfer involves placing the selected embryos into a slim, flexible catheter that is subsequently passed into your uterus through your cervix. The procedure is performed in a very gentle manner to avoid cramping of the uterus and thus allowing the embryos to “settle” into the endometrium undisturbed. The procedure lasts approximately five to ten minutes. A partner will be allowed to accompany you during the transfer.

Similar to your experience during the egg retrieval, you will be transported to the recovery room by stretcher and asked to remain for one hour. Your discharge instructions will again be reviewed, if necessary, emphasizing your activity level for the following two to three days. It is recommended that you stay “off your feet.” You may get out of bed in the morning, use the bathroom, and take a shower. Aside from these activities, you should remain in a lying or sitting position with your feet elevated. You should get up only for bathroom use.

After two to three days, you can ease into normal daily activities. If you have a job that involves heavy lifting, long hours on your feet, or other mental or physical stress, you might choose to remain out of work for a longer period of time. If you have a job that is not physically or emotionally stressful, you can return earlier. It is best to curtail any exercise for about one week after the transfer, at which point you can slowly advance to your normal routine.