At a glance
Understand why PGT cycles are often frozen, how FET preparation works, and what international patients should confirm with their clinic before planning travel to Thailand.
After a PGT cycle, many patients in Thailand plan a frozen embryo transfer (FET) rather than a fresh transfer. This guide explains the general clinical logic of a freeze-all cycle, how FET preparation typically works, and what international patients should confirm with their treating clinic before booking travel. It is educational only and does not replace personalised medical advice.
At a glance
- PGT involves testing embryos for chromosomal or genetic conditions; results are usually available after a few days.
- A freeze-all approach means embryos are vitrified (fast-frozen) and transferred in a later cycle.
- FET preparation focuses on synchronising the endometrium with embryo development.
- Timelines vary by clinic, protocol, and your response; confirm all dates and requirements directly.
- Storage, shipping, and legal arrangements are clinic- and country-specific; ask for written details.
Why PGT cycles often use a freeze-all approach
PGT-A (preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy) or PGT-M (for monogenic conditions) requires a biopsy of a few cells from each embryo. The embryos are then vitrified while the laboratory processes and analyses the samples. This freeze-all strategy allows the care team to review results before deciding which embryo(s) to transfer. It also gives the endometrium time to recover from ovarian stimulation, which may be preferable in some cases. However, not every PGT cycle is freeze-all; your clinic will advise based on your situation.
What happens between egg retrieval and FET
After egg retrieval and fertilisation, embryos are cultured to a suitable stage, usually blastocyst. A small sample is taken for testing, and the embryos are vitrified. The laboratory then performs the genetic analysis. When results are ready, your clinic will discuss which embryos are suitable for transfer. This interval can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the test and laboratory workload. Use this time to plan logistics and clarify next steps with your care team.
Preparing the endometrium for FET
FET preparation aims to make the uterine lining receptive. Common approaches include:
- Natural or modified natural cycle: Your own ovulation is tracked, and transfer is timed accordingly. This may involve less medication but requires monitoring.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycle: Oestrogen and progesterone are used to build and then support the lining. This offers more scheduling control, which can be helpful for international patients.
Your clinic will recommend a protocol based on your history, cycle regularity, and other factors. Monitoring typically includes blood tests and ultrasound scans. The exact schedule and medication instructions must come from your treating clinic.
Planning travel for FET in Thailand
International patients often need to coordinate travel with monitoring. Some clinics allow part of the preparation to be done locally, with final scans and transfer in Thailand. Others may ask you to arrive earlier. Key planning points:
- Ask your clinic for a written timeline with approximate dates for start of medication, monitoring, travel, and transfer.
- Confirm how many days you need to stay in Thailand before and after transfer.
- Check whether your clinic can liaise with a local doctor for monitoring.
- Review travel insurance and cancellation policies, as medical schedules can change.
- Discuss any visa or entry requirements with the relevant embassy or authority; rules can change.
Storage and logistics of vitrified embryos
Embryos remain vitrified in storage until needed. Storage arrangements, fees, and consent requirements are set by the clinic and may be subject to local regulations. If you are considering moving embryos between clinics or countries, ask about compatibility, shipping, and legal permissions. Do not assume that transfer between facilities is straightforward; obtain written confirmation.
Questions to ask your clinic
- What is your recommended FET protocol for my situation, and why?
- What monitoring is required, and can some of it be done in my home country?
- What are the approximate dates for starting medication and for the transfer?
- How long should I plan to stay in Thailand?
- What are the costs involved, including storage, monitoring, and any additional fees?
- What are the success rates for FET after PGT at your clinic, and how do you define success?
- What are the risks and possible complications I should be aware of?
- What legal or consent documents do I need to provide?
Next steps checklist
- Request a written FET plan and timeline from your clinic.
- Clarify monitoring arrangements and whether local monitoring is possible.
- Confirm all costs in writing, including storage and any travel-related medical fees.
- Check travel documents and insurance; consult official sources for visa rules.
- Ask about embryo storage consent and what happens if you need to change plans.
- Keep a list of questions for your next appointment.
For more context on treatment steps and planning, see our guides on embryo transfer in Thailand, IVF in Thailand, the treatment process, and information for international patients.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get PGT results before a frozen embryo transfer?
The time varies by laboratory and test type. Your clinic can give you an estimated timeframe. Use this period to plan travel and clarify next steps.
Can I do FET preparation monitoring in my home country?
Some clinics allow shared care with a local doctor. Ask your treating clinic whether this is possible and what they require for monitoring.
What is the difference between a natural cycle and an HRT cycle for FET?
A natural cycle relies on your own ovulation, while an HRT cycle uses medication to prepare the lining. Each has advantages and disadvantages; your clinic will recommend based on your situation.
How long can embryos be stored after PGT?
Storage duration depends on clinic policy and local regulations. Discuss storage terms, fees, and consent with your clinic.
What costs are involved in FET after PGT in Thailand?
Costs vary widely and may include storage, monitoring, medication, and transfer fees. Request a written cost estimate from your clinic.
Continue your research
Medical information notice: This article is educational and does not replace individual assessment, diagnosis, genetic counselling or treatment advice from a licensed clinician. Provider services, availability, fees and policies should be verified directly before booking.
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