ZIFT (Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer)

ZIFT combines IVF egg retrieval and fertilization in the lab with laparoscopic transfer of the resulting zygote into the fallopian tube, where it naturally travels to the uterus for implantation. It was developed as an alternative to GIFT (gamete intrafallopian transfer) that still allowed fertilization confirmation.

ZIFT required two procedures — egg retrieval and laparoscopy under general anesthesia — making it more invasive, costly, and logistically complex than conventional IVF with uterine transfer. As IVF lab culture conditions and uterine transfer techniques improved, ZIFT largely fell out of use by the late 1990s.

It is mentioned in fertility literature primarily for historical context; fewer than 100 ZIFT cycles are performed annually in the United States today.