Frozen embryo transfer (FET)

Also written as FET

Written by Zayn Miah & R KhanomLast updated 17 September 2026Not clinically reviewed

An embryo transfer using an embryo that was previously frozen and is thawed for the procedure.

In plain English

It's a transfer using an embryo that was frozen from an earlier cycle and thawed for this attempt.

Why it matters

It allows extra embryos from one egg collection to be used in later cycles, and cumulative live birth rates take these into account.

Related terms

Guides that cover this

Sources

Written by patients, not clinicians. This page has not yet been reviewed by a named fertility professional, so it explains published guidance and points you to the original source instead of giving medical advice. It is not medical advice. Decisions about your treatment belong with your own clinic. Read our editorial policy and corrections policy.