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Fertility Glossary

Cleavage-stage embryo

An embryo in the first days of cell division, before it compacts.

Embryology

Cleavage-stage embryos (day 2 and day 3) are assessed by cell number, evenness and fragmentation. Some are transferred or frozen at this stage.

Also known as: cleavage embryo

Related United Kingdom guides

Last reviewed: 23 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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