hCG Wash IVF: What It Is, Why It’s Used, and What to Expect
An hCG wash (also called an hCG uterine wash or intrauterine hCG infusion) is a simple procedure often performed shortly before frozen embryo transfer or prior to embryo transfer during IVF.
With an hCG wash, a small amount of diluted human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is placed directly into the uterus using a soft catheter, similar to the embryo transfer process itself.
This article explains what an hCG wash is, the reasoning behind its use, who it may be appropriate for, and what to expect if it’s included in your IVF or FET treatment plan.
hCG Wash before IVF fresh transfer or FET— At a Glance
- When it’s done: 1—2 days prior to embryo transfer
- What it involves: A small amount of hCG is placed into the uterus with a soft catheter
- Why it’s used: To support endometrial receptivity and improve implantation
- Cost: Relatively low compared with many IVF add-ons
What Is hCG?
hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a hormone involved in early pregnancy. It’s often referred to as the “pregnancy hormone” because it’s the hormone home pregnancy tests detect.
Beyond its role in confirming pregnancy, hCG also plays an important role in early implantation.
What is an hCG Wash?
An hCG wash is an intrauterine infusion of diluted hCG performed shortly before embryo transfer.
- Most commonly used dose: 10,000 IU vials
- Timing: Typically performed 1-2 days prior to embryo transfer
- Method: Uses a thin, soft catheter (similar to embryo transfer)
The Idea Behind an hCG Wash
In early pregnancy, the embryo and uterine lining communicate through biochemical signals as implantation approaches. One of the signals involved in this early communication is hCG.
In IVF, embryos are created outside the body and transferred directly into the uterus. Because of this, the uterine lining may not be exposed to the same early signaling that normally occurs as implantation begins.
An hCG wash is designed to mimic part of this early embryo-uterus communication by exposing the uterine lining to a small amount of hCG shortly before embryo transfer. The goal is to help support endometrial receptivity.
Who Is an hCG Wash Good For?
An hCG wash may be especially appealing for individuals undergoing IVF who are looking for a simple, low-risk way to support implantation at the time of embryo transfer.
It is commonly considered for:
- Patients with a history of failed implantation or repeated unsuccessful embryo transfers, as part of an individualized transfer strategy
- Frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles, where the natural sequence of hormonal signaling differs from a fresh cycle
- Patients with concerns about endometrial receptivity, even when lining thickness appears adequate on ultrasound
- Because the procedure is low risk, quick, and relatively inexpensive, some providers include an hCG wash routinely with embryo transfer, while others recommend it selectively based on medical history and prior outcomes.
As with any IVF add-on, the decision to use an hCG wash should be made in consultation with your fertility specialist to determine whether it aligns with your specific needs.
What the Research Shows
Studies evaluating hCG wash before embryo transfer show mixed but encouraging results.
Some randomized trials and meta-analyses report higher implantation and pregnancy rates, while others show no clear benefit. Differences in embryo stage, timing, and study design likely explain much of this variation.
Importantly, no major safety concerns have been consistently identified in the published literature.
Because it is simple, low-burden, and relatively inexpensive, many clinics, including CNY Fertility, use hCG wash for both day 3 and day 5 fresh and frozen embryo transfers as part of individualized care.
When is an hCG Wash Used at CNY Fertility?
At CNY Fertility, hCG washes are commonly used for:
- Day 3 (cleavage-stage) transfers
- Day 5 (blastocyst) transfers
- Fresh and frozen embryo transfers
What to Expect During an hCG Wash
The procedure is:
- Quick (usually just takes a few minutes)
- Performed in the clinic
- Done using a soft catheter
- Similar in sensation to embryo transfer or IUI
There is no downtime, and embryo transfer typically follows 1-2 days after.
Does an hCG Wash Hurt?
Most patients report little to no discomfort. Some experience mild cramping similar to catheter placement during transfer.
Is an hCG Wash Safe?
An hCG wash is generally considered low risk.
Possible side effects are usually mild and may include:
- Light cramping
- Mild spotting
Systematic reviews have not shown an apparent increase in miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or serious complications associated with intrauterine hCG use.
How Much Does an hCG Wash Cost?
It’s important to separate procedure cost from medication cost.
hCG Wash Procedure Cost
- At CNY Fertility, the hCG wash procedure costs $50.
hCG Medication Cost
- hCG is typically supplied in 10,000 IU vials
- Cash-pay pharmacy pricing commonly ranges from $120-200 per vial
- Typical Total Cost
- Procedure: $50
- Medication: $120-$200 (some insurances may cover)
- Total: usually around $170–$250
Compared with many IVF add-ons, hCG wash is often considered a lower-cost, lower-burden option, and the medication is often covered by insurance.
Bottom Line: Is an hCG Wash Worth Considering?
An hCG wash with IVF protocol is a simple intrauterine infusion designed to support implantation signaling at the time of embryo transfer.
While no add-on guarantees success, hCG wash is:
- Low risk
- Quick and minimally invasive
- Relatively inexpensive
- Commonly used for both day 3 and day 5 transfers at CNY Fertility
For many patients, it represents a reasonable option to discuss as part of an individualized IVF plan.
