So, you’re diving into the world of IVF? That’s a big step! At Pacific Fertility Center in Los Angeles, we offer an innovative technique called assisted hatching, which can be a game changer for many couples. If you’ve had a couple of IVF attempts without success, this might be just what you need to up your chances of conception.
Who Can Benefit from Assisted Hatching?
Assisted hatching is especially beneficial for women over 37, those who’ve faced multiple unsuccessful IVF cycles, or if your embryos aren’t implanting like they should. If you’ve got higher levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which makes the zona pellucida (the embryo’s outer shell) thicker, your doctor might suggest this technique to help things along.
The Perks of Assisted Hatching
This method allows for fewer embryos needed per cycle while boosting the odds of successful implantation. Plus, it can give you extra embryos to freeze for future use, which is a nice little backup plan.
What’s the Process Like?
Around day four after fertilization, your embryos are nestled in their protective shell. For them to latch onto the uterine lining, they need to break out of that shell. Sometimes, it’s a bit too thick for that to happen. Assisted hatching involves thinning or puncturing the outer shell, making it easier for the embryo to attach.
During the procedure, our skilled embryologists will hold the embryo under a microscope and gently apply a mild acid to create a tiny hole in the shell. After this, the embryo is cleaned up and placed back in the incubator, ready for implantation.
Our Other Services
At PFCLA, we offer a full range of fertility services, so you can tackle your journey right here with our dedicated team. If you’re curious about egg freezing or want to explore your options for female infertility testing, we’ve got you covered. And for those interested in medication options to support your fertility, we’re here to help you navigate that too.
If you’re looking for financial assistance, assisted hatching is part of our Access Plan, designed to support intended parents.
Starting a family is a beautiful journey, and we believe everyone deserves that chance. If you want to learn more about coping with gestational diabetes, check out this one of our other blog posts. And if you’re curious about the fertility journey, Make A Mom has some great insights.
Summary
Assisted hatching is an effective technique at PFCLA designed to enhance IVF success rates, especially for those who’ve faced challenges in previous attempts. By thinning the embryo’s shell, we increase the chances of successful implantation, while also providing options for preserving embryos for the future. With a range of services and an understanding team, we’re here to support you on your path to parenthood.