What is assisted hatching?
Cell division occurs in the laboratory after an egg is fertilized. During these early stages of development, the embryo is encased in a layer of proteins called the zona pellicuda. An embryo must emerge from the zona pellucida and adhere to the uterine walls in order to properly implant into the uterine lining.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) scientists have devised a new lab technique called assisted hatching, which aims to boost the implantation rates of embryos with thin zona pellucida. The process includes stabilizing the embryo, producing laser defects, and manipulating micro manifolds before putting them back in the incubator to continue developing.
Who might benefit from assisted hatching?
For patients who are having IVF treatment for the second or third time as a result of unsuccessful cycles, assisted hatching is advised. Couples who are unable to conceive naturally can also utilize it if they have reproductive problems or other medical issues.
Other circumstances in which assisted hatching may be beneficial are listed below.
- Age of the patient: While the zona pellucida can expand with age, women over 36 years old may benefit from Assisted Hatching. Our eggs become less in number with time, but poor egg quality can also lead to problems with reproduction.
- Recurrent failures in past IVF rounds due to implantation: Often, repeated IVF cycles will not be successful, regardless of the cause of infertility. Even in cases where the pregnancy is unexplained, assisted hatching may significantly improve the probability of a successful outcome.
- Thickened zona pellucida: Imbalances in the zona pellucida’s structure can make implantation less successful. Elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels have been associated with a thick or hard protective shell encircling the embryo.
- Frozen-thawed embryos: Using previously frozen embryos can make fertilization difficult. Thawed embryos undergo assisted hatching because, during cryopreservation, the zona pellucida might stiffen independently of the stage of the embryo’s frozen development.
- Other particular reproductive problems: As IVF treatment is customized for every patient, aided hatching is meant to address a variety of health issues. These include slow division rates, severe fragmentation, and various problems connected to embryos.
How is assisted hatching performed using Tyrode’s acid solution?
- A special holding pipette is used to hold the embryo.
- The acidic solution is pushed out against the embryo’s outer “shell,” or zona pellucida, using a very thin, hollow needle.
- By breaking down the shell with the acidic solution, a tiny hole is created.
- After cleaning, the embryo is re-cultured within the incubator.
- The hatching process is followed quickly by the embryo transfer procedure.
- Using embryo transfer, the embryos are inserted into the uterus with the expectation that they will implant and grow to become a living being.
What are the risks and benefits associated with assisted hatching?
Assisted hatching has many benefits and drawbacks. It has been demonstrated that assisted hatching raises the likelihood of successful implantation and pregnancy. Up to 38% of embryos generated by IVF result in pregnancy and up to 50% of those embryos implant.
However, there are risks associated with every medical operation. The abilities of the embryologist conducting the process are just as important to the outcome of aided hatching as the embryo’s reaction. An embryo may be harmed if the zona pellucida is handled incorrectly or the procedure is not flawless.
The embryo’s protective layer may become so compromised by assisted hatching that infection may arise. In incredibly rare instances, a pregnancy may potentially result in multiple births or birth abnormalities.
Like with any IVF process, there is no guarantee of success even with aided hatching. Research on the benefits of ART, particularly assisted hatching, is ongoing. While the majority of reproductive clinics employ the laser-assisted hatching method, most studies have concentrated on the efficacy of alternative techniques, such as acidified Tyrode solution or partial ZP dissection.
What can you expect if you choose assisted hatching?
If you choose Assisted Hatching what to expect is as follows:
- Procedure: The procedure is usually carried out on the third or fourth day of embryonic development. An embryologist uses a laser or a thin needle to make a tiny hole in the zona pellucida.
- Success Rates: Although assisted hatching can increase the chance of implantation, its effectiveness varies. Among the factors influencing the success rate are the mother’s overall health, the reason for the infertility, and the quality of the embryo.
- Potential risks: Most people agree that assisted hatching is a safe procedure. However, there is a very little risk that the embryo will suffer harm in the procedure.
- Cost: The total cost of IVF treatment usually covers assisted hatching expenses. It’s important to go over the precise expenses with your fertility centre.
To find out if assisted hatching is the right choice for you, it’s important to discuss this with your fertility doctor.
Will assisted hatching improve the chances of success with IVF?
Patients with poor prognoses benefit from assisted hatching, which increases clinical pregnancy rates. However, success depends on the skill and experience of the embryologist; for success, speak with a fertility clinic.
Is the process of assisted hatching with IVF safe?
Complications may arise from assisted hatching. It might be linked to harm to the embryo and specific blastomere damage, lowering the embryo’s viability. Furthermore, there is a link between assisted hatching and a higher chance of twin pregnancies.
Why Tender Palm IVF & Fertility Center for Assisted Hatching Treatment in Lucknow, India?
Tender Palm IVF & Fertility Center offers advanced Assisted Hatching treatment in Lucknow, India to improve embryo implantation and IVF success. Our experienced embryologists use precision laser-assisted techniques to gently thin or open the embryo’s outer shell, enhancing chances of pregnancy, especially in older women or those with previous IVF failures. We provide personalized fertility care with compassion, safety, and cutting-edge Technology.