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Fertility Glossary

Day 3 embryo

A cleavage-stage embryo, usually with about six to eight cells.

Eggs, sperm & embryos

By day three an embryo has divided into roughly six to eight cells. Transfer at this stage is still used, particularly where few embryos are available and there is little to choose between them, or where the clinic judges the womb to be a better environment than extended culture.

Also known as: cleavage stage transfer, day three

Sources

  • ESHRE guidelines and patient information

Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only β€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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