IUT stands for Intrauterine Transfer, which is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure used in in-vitro fertilization (IVF).
In IVF, fertilization occurs outside the body. Once the embryo has developed to a certain stage, it is transferred back into the woman's uterus to hopefully implant and result in a pregnancy. IUT specifically refers to the transfer of an embryo containing more than 8 blastomeres (cells) into the uterus. This typically happens when the embryo is around 3 days old.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- IVF Process: First, eggs are retrieved from the woman's ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory.
- Embryo Development: The fertilized egg, now an embryo, is allowed to develop in the lab for a few days. During this time, the cells divide.
- Blastomere Count: When the embryo reaches the stage where it has more than 8 cells (blastomeres), typically around day 3, it is considered for IUT.
- Transfer Procedure: A catheter (thin, flexible tube) is used to gently place the embryo directly into the uterus.
Why is it done?
IUT is performed as part of the IVF process to help couples struggling with infertility to conceive. The goal is to increase the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy.
In summary, IUT (Intrauterine Transfer) is a specific stage in IVF where an embryo with more than 8 cells is transferred into the uterus to facilitate pregnancy.
