At Fertilidad Integral, we closely accompany you every step of the way on your journey to motherhood. One of the most common questions is: Why doesn’t pregnancy happen after the first embryo transfer? It’s completely valid to ask this question, and it’s essential to understand that a single transfer doesn’t always mean an immediate result.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most effective tools in assisted reproductive technology. However, less than 35% of patients achieve pregnancy on their first attempt. This doesn’t mean the treatment isn’t working; rather, like natural conception, success often requires time, patience, and persistence.
What Factors Influence the Need for Multiple Transfers?
- Embryo Quality Even if an egg is successfully fertilized in the lab, not all embryos reach day 5 or 6 (the blastocyst stage) with the optimal quality needed for transfer or vitrification. Even embryos that look perfect under the microscope may not implant if they have chromosomal abnormalities.
- Endometrial Receptivity The uterus must be in ideal condition for the embryo to implant successfully.
- The Woman’s Age Age directly impacts egg quality. After 35, the number of available eggs decreases, and the likelihood of genetic abnormalities increases, which can result in embryos that fail to implant or develop.
How Many Transfers Are Needed on Average?
Recent studies show that:
- Only 33% of people achieve pregnancy in their first IVF cycle.
- Between 54% and 77% achieve pregnancy after up to eight cycles.
- On average, most patients succeed after 2 to 3 transfers, especially when using genetically tested embryos (PGT-A).
Is It Normal for IVF Not to Work on the First Try?
Yes. IVF does not guarantee immediate pregnancy. In many cases, it’s the beginning of a process that may require adjustments and multiple attempts to achieve that long-awaited positive result.
How Many Embryos Are Transferred Per Cycle?
At Fertilidad Integral, we recommend Single Embryo Transfer (SET) in most cases, especially when the embryo has been genetically tested and is of high quality. This reduces risks and promotes a healthy pregnancy.
What Can I Do to Improve My Chances?
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle (proper weight, no smoking, balanced nutrition).
- Supplementation and hormonal management supervised by specialists.
- Advanced techniques like PGT-A to select euploid embryos (with normal genetic makeup).
Our Commitment to You
At Fertilidad Integral, we understand that each attempt involves hope, excitement, and sometimes anxiety. That’s why our medical, nutritional, and emotional support teams work with you to make every step clearer, more supported, and backed by the best available technology.
Additionally, we’re offering a special promotion that includes a complete IVF treatment with the possibility of up to three embryo transfers (one fresh and two vitrified, if embryos are available). Contact us to learn more and take the first step!
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – ART Success Rates 2022
- Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) – IVF and Embryo Transfer Statistics
- Halle Tecco, MPH, MBA. “2025 Fertility Statistics I Need to Know About,” Cofertility
- Mayo Clinic – IVF Success Rates and Considerations
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
- FertilityIQ – IVF Cost & Success Data 2024
