For couples facing the emotional toll of infertility and multiple unsuccessful IVF attempts, the journey can feel daunting. To enhance the chances of conception, fertility specialists often recommend assisted hatching as part of the IVF process. This technique aims to facilitate the embryo’s implantation into the uterine wall. Let’s break down what assisted hatching is and who may find it beneficial.
What is Assisted Hatching?
Assisted hatching is a laboratory procedure where a specialist creates a small opening in the outer shell (zona pellucida) of an embryo. This step is crucial because some embryos may struggle to break through their protective layers, particularly if these layers are thick, leading to failed implantation during the embryo transfer process.
Impact of Assisted Hatching on IVF Success
While studies suggest that assisted hatching can improve implantation rates, especially for women with a history of unsuccessful pregnancies or those using frozen embryos, more research is needed to establish a direct connection to live births or reduced miscarriage rates.
Who Can Benefit from Assisted Hatching?
- Women with Previous IVF Failures: Although IVF generally has higher success rates compared to other fertility treatments, some women may still find it difficult to conceive. Those who have experienced two or more unsuccessful IVF cycles may see improved outcomes with assisted hatching. Since IVF addresses various stages of conception but not implantation, this technique can be a valuable addition.
- Women Over 37: Age plays a significant role in fertility. Women older than 37 are more susceptible to fertility issues and tend to have lower success rates with IVF. Therefore, assisted hatching is often recommended for these patients, even if it’s their first IVF attempt.
- Patients with High FSH Levels: High levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can indicate potential challenges with fertility. Women with elevated FSH levels may have thicker zona pellucida layers, making it harder for embryos to implant. In such cases, assisted hatching could improve the chances of a successful IVF outcome.
If you’re exploring fertility options, you might want to check out our other blog post on childcare costs to manage your expectations. For more insights, you can visit this excellent resource about pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, assisted hatching is a promising technique for enhancing the chances of embryo implantation, particularly for women with previous IVF failures, those over 37, or patients with high FSH levels. At our clinic, we’re committed to providing the best fertility services to help intended parents achieve their dreams of parenthood.