Understanding Embryo Quality & Implantation Chances After Egg Transfer

Question
We just had egg transfer 3 days ago, but our embryos did not make it to blastocyst stage, they were day 5 but looked like day 4 embryos, but our embryologist said they were still growing and changing.  Two embryos were transferred.  Is it possible they will implant and I will get pregnant.  Can this indicate a genetic defect?  Thanks

Answer
Hello,

The fact that they had not progressed much by day 5 is not a good indication.  Most of these embryos are poor quality for lots of different reasons, most of which we cannot test for.  A lot of them will have multiple genetic abnormalities when PGD is done.  I see miracles happen all the time, so I never rule out the possibility of a pregnancy, even in the worst cases.  You will just have to wait and see.  One thing I don't understand is, if the embryos had not developed adequately by day #3, then why were they cultured to blastocyst?  I probably would have transferred on day #3 to give them he best chance.  The uterus is a better culture media and incubator than the lab.

Sincerely,

Edward J. Ramirez M.D., FACOB
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com

Monterey, California, U.S.A.