Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) in Vizag - Kutumb IVF
What is Laser Hatching?
Laser hatching is a technique that is used in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) to help improve the chances of implantation and pregnancy. It is a procedure that is performed on the embryo in the laboratory after fertilization and before transfer to the uterus.
During laser hatching, a small opening is made in the outer shell of the embryo, called the zona pellucida, using a laser beam. This opening allows the embryo to “hatch” out of its shell and can help improve the chances of successful implantation by allowing the embryo to more easily attach to the lining of the uterus.
The procedure is considered to be safe and does not harm the embryo. It does not increase the risk of chromosomal abnormalities or birth defects, and it has been shown to increase pregnancy rates in some cases. It is generally recommended for women who are older, have had repeated IVF failures, or have poor embryo quality.
What is the process of Laser Hatching?
The process of laser hatching typically involves the following steps:
- Embryo culture: The fertilized eggs, now called embryos, are grown in the laboratory for 2 to 6 days, usually to the 6-8 cell stage
- Selection of embryos: Embryos are selected for hatching based on the thickness of their zona pellucida (the outer shell of the embryo) and the stage of development.
- Laser hatching: The embryos are placed under a microscope and a laser beam is used to make a small opening in the zona pellucida. The procedure is performed by a skilled embryologist and takes only a few minutes.
- Embryo transfer: The hatched embryos are then transferred to the woman’s uterus, with the goal of establishing a pregnancy.
- Luteal Support and Pregnancy Test : After embryo transfer, the woman is given medication to support the implantation of the embryo and will take a pregnancy test two weeks later.
- Cryopreservation : Any remaining embryos that are not transferred can be frozen for future use.
When is Laser Hatching procedure recommended?
Laser hatching is typically recommended for couples who have been trying to conceive for at least one year without success, and have undergone previous unsuccessful IVF cycles or have poor embryo quality. It is also commonly recommended for women who are older, as the success rate of IVF decreases with age. Additionally, some studies suggest that laser hatching may be beneficial for women who have had a history of implantation failure, recurrent pregnancy loss, or have poor endometrial receptivity.
