Embarking on the IVF journey is thrilling, especially when you discover that you have viable embryos ready for transfer to a surrogate or the intended mother. After choosing your donor and completing a successful cycle, it’s time to assess your embryos—this is where embryo grading comes into play!
So, what exactly is embryo grading? Essentially, it’s a method used by fertility specialists to evaluate which embryos are best for transfer, how many to transfer, and when the transfer should occur. About 24 hours post-fertilization, parents will learn how many embryos have developed and are suitable for transfer. This number can fluctuate in the following days, as the lab monitors the embryos’ progress on days five and six. If you’ve opted for genetic testing, this is also when those tests will be conducted—otherwise, embryos may be frozen for future use unless a fresh transfer is planned.
The Embryo Grading Process
Now, let’s break down the embryo grading process. Each case is unique, but here’s a general overview of how we approach grading at Pacific Fertility Los Angeles. The grading process is crucial, particularly on days five and six of development.
During embryo grading, embryologists evaluate the embryos’ morphology using a high-powered microscope, assessing them based on specific visual criteria. This information is then shared with the parents. From the moment of creation, embryos grow in an incubator, and a viable embryo must reach particular growth stages based on cell count. For instance, the day after fertilization, an embryo consists of two cells. As days progress, these cells divide, and by day five, they may form a “blastocyst,” which is a dense cluster of cells. Embryos are then ranked based on their development stage and overall appearance.
Stages of Embryo Development
The different stages of embryo development include:
- Early blastocyst
- Blastocyst
- Expanded blastocyst
- Hatching expanded blastocyst
On day five, an embryo that has expanded is considered to be of the highest quality. Our embryologists also give subjective grades, ranging from I to III, with I being exceptional and III indicating a less favorable embryo. Some embryos may be reevaluated on day six.
The Importance of Expertise
When it comes time to fertilize and transfer embryos, the expertise of your fertility clinic is invaluable. At PFCLA, we’ve assisted in the birth of over 13,500 babies for intended parents from more than 75 countries. If you’re eager to begin your journey, we’re here to help you create healthy embryos for a successful pregnancy.
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Conclusion
In summary, embryo grading is a critical step in the IVF process that helps determine the best embryos for transfer, ensuring the highest chances of a successful pregnancy. When you’re ready to take this important step, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance!