Question 1

What's the difference between medicated and natural FET?

Accepted Answer

Medicated FET uses estrogen and progesterone to prepare your lining, giving more scheduling control. Natural FET follows your body's ovulation without hormones. Both have similar success rates; the choice depends on your cycle regularity and clinic's protocol.

Question 2

How thick should my lining be for FET?

Accepted Answer

Most clinics want to see at least 7-8mm thickness with a trilaminar (three-layer) pattern. Some clinics prefer 8mm or more. If your lining doesn't reach this threshold, your cycle may be extended or converted to the next month.

Question 3

When does progesterone start in a FET cycle?

Accepted Answer

In a medicated cycle, progesterone typically starts once your lining reaches the target thickness, usually after 10-14 days of estrogen. Transfer is then scheduled 5 days later for a 5-day blastocyst or 6 days for a 6-day blast.

Question 4

Can a FET cycle be cancelled?

Accepted Answer

Yes, cycles can be cancelled if lining doesn't develop adequately, hormone levels aren't optimal, or ovulation occurs unexpectedly in a medicated cycle. This is frustrating but ensures the best conditions for your embryo.

Question 5

How long after FET do I get results?

Accepted Answer

Beta HCG blood test is typically scheduled 9-12 days after transfer. Many clinics test at 10 days post-5-day transfer. You may see a positive home test a few days earlier, but the blood test confirms pregnancy and measures HCG level.

Question 6

Do I need any medications after FET?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you'll continue progesterone (and often estrogen) after transfer, typically until 8-10 weeks of pregnancy when the placenta takes over hormone production. Some clinics gradually wean, others stop at a set point.

Phase	Timing	What Happens
Period Starts	Day 1	Cycle day 1 - first day of full flow
Baseline Scan	Day 2-3	Ultrasound to check lining is thin, no cysts
Start Estrogen	Day 2-3	Begin estrogen patches, pills, or injections
Lining Check	Day 10-14	Ultrasound to measure lining thickness
Start Progesterone	Day 14-18	Begin progesterone once lining ready
Transfer Day	Day 19-23	Frozen embryo transferred (5 days after P4 start)
Beta Test	Day 29-33	Blood test to confirm pregnancy (~10 days post-transfer)

How long does a frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle take?

Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) Timeline Calculator

Your Cycle Details

Medicated FET Cycle Steps

Medicated vs Natural FET

Medicated FET

Natural FET

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Frequently Asked Questions