Ultrasound-Guided Embryo Transfer (Abdominal/Vaginal): An Evidence-Based Evaluation

Abstract

The literature generally supports the use of ultrasound guidance to assist clinicians during embryo transfer. However, the exact mechanism(s) whereby ultrasound-guided embryo transfer improves pregnancy rates remains unclear. Several theories have been proposed including (1) confirming the position of the tip of the embryo transfer catheter within the uterine cavity, (2) accurately determining the site of embryo deposition, (3) increasing the frequency of “easy” embryo transfers, and (4) avoiding endometrial indentation. Nevertheless, some clinicians might argue that the actual benefit of using ultrasound during embryo transfer is the ability to visualize the pelvic structures in real time. Whatever the underlying mechanism, or criticism of the procedure, the overall conclusion is that with most clinicians, using ultrasound will significantly improve their patients’ pregnancy rates. Coupled with the fact that no study to date has shown any negative adverse events to the use of ultrasonographic guidance during embryo transfer, this technique has gained enormous popularity in the world of assisted reproduction.