Exploring Laser Hatching: Enhancing Assisted Reproductive Technologies
What is Laser Hatching?
Laser hatching is a technique used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures, particularly in vitro fertilization (IVF), to assist embryos in the process of implantation. It involves the use of a laser to create a small opening or “hatch” in the outer shell of an embryo before it is transferred into the uterus.
Here's how laser hatching typically works:
- Embryo Selection:
After fertilization in the laboratory, embryos are typically cultured for several days until they reach a certain stage of development.
- Outer Shell Incision:
At this stage, a small opening is created in the outer shell using a laser beam. The laser is directed at a precise location on the outer shell of the embryo to make a controlled incision without damaging the embryo.
- Facilitating Implantation:
The purpose of creating this small opening is to facilitate the hatching process of the embryo. Hatching refers to the embryo’s escape from the outer shell, which it must do in order to implant into the lining of the uterus and establish pregnancy.
- Embryo Transfer:
After laser hatching, the embryo is transferred into the uterus using a thin catheter, typically as part of an IVF cycle.
What are Assisted Reproductive Technologies?
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) are medical procedures or interventions designed to assist individuals or couples in achieving pregnancy when they are unable to do so through natural conception. These technologies are used to address a wide range of fertility issues and may involve various techniques. These are examples of ART:
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
IVF is one of the most common ART procedures. It involves the fertilization of eggs with sperm in a laboratory setting, outside of the body. After fertilization, one or more embryos are transferred into the uterus to establish a pregnancy.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI):
ICSI is a procedure used in conjunction with IVF to overcome male infertility issues. It involves the direct injection of a single sperm into an egg to facilitate fertilization.
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI):
Also known as artificial insemination, IUI involves placing sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation to increase the chances of fertilization.
- Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT):
GIFT involves the transfer of eggs and sperm into the fallopian tubes, where fertilization occurs naturally. It is less commonly used than IVF and IUI.
These are just a few examples of the many ART procedures available. The specific treatment or combination of treatments recommended will depend on the underlying cause of infertility, the age and health of the individuals involved, and other factors. ART has provided hope and helped many individuals and couples overcome infertility to achieve their dream of having children.
How is Laser Hatching as an Assisted Reproductive Technology?
Laser hatching is indeed considered an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). It is a specialized procedure used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to assist embryos in the process of implantation.
Laser hatching is a specialized ART procedure aimed at improving the success rates of IVF by enhancing the implantation potential of embryos. It is one of several techniques available to assist individuals and couples in overcoming infertility and achieving their goal of parenthood. You can avail the use of laser hatching at the Eva IVF & Women’s Centre.
They do laser hatching for indications like thick outer layered embryos, previous implantation failure etc. Along with embryos glue, laser hatching increases implantation rate& success rates on IUF.