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Fertility Glossary

Elective single embryo transfer (eSET)

Choosing to transfer one embryo when more good embryos are available.

IVF & IUI

Elective single embryo transfer means deliberately transferring one embryo even though others of good quality could have been transferred, with the rest frozen. Where embryo quality is good and the person is younger, the cumulative chance of a baby across the fresh and subsequent frozen transfers is similar to transferring two at once, but without the risks of a twin pregnancy.

Also known as: eSET

Related South Africa guides

Sources

  • ESHRE/ICMART glossary and ESHRE laboratory guidance

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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