Single Embryo Transfer – eSET Program at DVIF&G

eSET stands for elective single embryo transfer. This term is used to describe selection and placement of one embryo into the uterus. The embryo is selected from a larger number of embryos. The embryos may be cryopreserved (frozen) from a previous IVF cycle, or from the current IVF cycle.

eSET helps to avoid twin pregnancies and pregnancies with high-order multiples (triplets or more). These pregnancies are often associated with greater risks for both mother and babies. Risks include low birth weight and prematurity. Premature infants often need to be hospitalized in neonatal intensive care units, sometimes for an extended time period. They may have difficulty breathing, eating, and maintaining their body temperature.

It is likely that women with multiples will need a cesarean section, and this can increase risk of maternal complications including postpartum hemorrhage and infection.

Women that carry multiples are also more likely to experience complications with their blood pressure and blood sugar.

Your fertility doctor might recommend eSET based on a number of different factors. These include your age and the quality of your embryos. Embryo quality is guided by a grading scale that takes multiple characteristics into consideration. Your fertility doctor and your embryologist will help you to decide if eSET is a good option for you.

Please note that some insurance companies provide coverage for a subsequent frozen embryo transfer, if eSET is performed and the couple is unable to become pregnant with IVF. This varies based on insurance provider and we recommend to verify coverage with your insurance company.