Assisted Hatching offers a gentle yet potentially transformative solution. This innovative technique helps embryos hatch from their protective shells, increasing implantation rates by up to 30%, according to the esteemed European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE, 2022). Especially beneficial for women of older age age or with a history of implantation failure, Assisted Hatching can help optimise the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Assisted hatching is an ART procedure that facilitates the hatching or emergence of an embryo from its zona pellucida. The process involves making a small hole in the membrane using micromanipulation techniques.
When the embryo reaches the blastocyst stage and naturally sheds the zona pellucida, assisted hatching aims to aid this process. It is particularly beneficial in cases where the membrane hardens, hindering the embryo’s ability to hatch due to factors like the age of the egg source, freezing conditions, or other causes.
The micromanipulation method employs laser technology to create a tiny opening in the zona pellucida, increasing the chances of successful hatching. The treated embryo is then placed back for further incubation or preparation for transfer.
Assisted hatching is recommended for:
Since the zona pellucida may become more rigid after freezing, assisted hatching is also beneficial before transplanting frozen-thawed embryos. The decision to proceed with assisted hatching is made based on close monitoring by experienced embryologists, and it is performed if and when necessary.
Assisted hatching is only recommended in specific cases, such as previous IVF failures, thick zona pellucida, and frozen embryo procedures.
Laser technology is used in the micromanipulation process to create a small opening in the zona pellucida.
Yes, assisted hatching can be performed with frozen-thawed embryos. In fact, it is often recommended in such cases to improve the chances of successful implantation.
The assisted hatching procedure is relatively quick and typically takes only a few minutes. The entire IVF process, including assisted hatching, involves careful planning and coordination, and your fertility team will provide a timeline for each step.
Assisted hatching does not require medication. It is a procedure performed on the embryo before transfer, involving the creation of a small opening in the zona pellucida, the outer layer of the embryo. This facilitates easier implantation.
Assisted hatching can be performed either before or after freezing, but it is most commonly done after thawing frozen embryos, just before transfer. This approach allows embryologists to ensure the zona pellucida (outer shell of the embryo) is softened or breached after the embryo has survived the freezing and thawing process.
Yes, in specific cases, assisted hatching may increase the chances of implantation and pregnancy. It is particularly beneficial for women over 35, those with previous failed IVF cycles, or embryos with a thicker zona pellucida. However, it is not routinely recommended for all patients, and its effectiveness varies.
While it can be helpful, assisted hatching carries some risks. These include the potential for embryo damage and a marginally increased chance of identical twins. The procedure should only be carried out when necessary and by experienced professionals.
Hatching embryos are more likely to implant successfully as they are already breaking through their outer shell. However, it does not necessarily mean they implant more quickly – the main advantage is improved readiness for implantation.
Hatching or fully hatched blastocysts often have higher implantation success, especially in patients with previous IVF challenges. Still, outcomes depend on multiple factors, including age, embryo quality, and overall fertility health.
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