Cleavage-stage embryo

Cleavage-stage embryos are assessed on cell number, evenness and fragmentation. Most Canadian laboratories now culture to blastocyst where numbers allow, but day 3 transfer is still used when few embryos are available.

Also known as: day 3 embryo, 8-cell embryo

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.