Assisted Hatching

Assisted hatching is a scientific technique that can improve the implantation of embryos into the women’s uterine lining, by creating an opening through which the embryo can hatch out. Just prior to embryo implantation, the developing embryo must “hatch” out of its outer shell (zona pellucida). Some embryos seem to have a thicker shell that may decrease their ability to implant. This may be due to the age of the woman or other unknown reasons.

Assisted Hatching is recommended for

  • Women who is over 37 years and using their own eggs.
  • Women with Higher FSH.
  • Women with recurring IVF Failure.
  • Women whose embryo exhibit thick Zona Pellucida (More than 17 Microns).
  • Post thaw embryos.
  • Poor responders (less than three embryos).
  • Sever endometriosis.

What is Zona Pellucida ?

The unfertilized egg is surrounded by a membrane called zona pellucida. The zona pellucida ensures that only one sperm enters and fertilizes the egg. After fertilization, the embryo begins to cleave into a two-cell, then a four-cell and so on.

It has been shown that women older than 37 years of age have a tendency to produce oocytes with a harder and/or thicker zona pellucida than younger women. The same goes for women with a high level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). The problem of a harder zona pellucida is that the embryo may not hatch and thus not attach to the woman’s womb. Hatching of the embryo is necessary to achieve pregnancy. Laboratory procedures involved in IVF may add to the hardening of the zona as the embryo is not continually exposed to the enzymes present in the natural environment of the Fallopian tubes.

Assisted Hatching Success Rates

IFC has good success rate with Assisted Hatching. In our centre assisted hatching has produced an improvement in pregnancy rates in women who were above 38 years.

Assisted Hatching Treatment Procedure at IFC

At International Fertility Centre, we offer laser-assisted hatching which is a gentle and safe way to weaken a part of zona pellucida. Laser assisted hatching has several advantages including; minimal handling of the embryo and delivering fast and exact control over the drilling of the hole.

This technique is usually performed complimentary in all our IVF cycles where required. We usually perform this for women over 38 and those who have had repeated IVF failures.

To get assisted hatching done for your embryos, please leave us a message below or give us a call at +91-9555544421/22/23.

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