Fresh transfer
An embryo is transferred in the same cycle as the egg retrieval, without an intervening freeze. Historically the default approach, still appropriate in specific situations.
Frozen transfer
Embryos are frozen (vitrified) and transferred in a later cycle — allows time for PGT results if pursued, avoids transferring during a stimulation-affected hormonal environment, and offers scheduling flexibility.
Why frozen transfer has gained ground
Avoiding transfer during the hormonally atypical stimulated cycle, plus the ability to wait for PGT results before selecting which embryo to transfer, has made frozen transfer the preferred approach in many modern protocols — though fresh transfer remains appropriate in specific cases.
See colombianivf.com for how this choice factors into international patient trip planning specifically.
The Takeaway
Ask your provider why they recommend fresh or frozen transfer specifically for your case — both are legitimate approaches, and the right choice depends on your specific situation.