Assisted Hatching

As part of an IVF/ICSI cycle at Toronto's LifeQuest clinic, assisted hatching may be required. 

What is Assisted Hatching?

For implantation (and pregnancy) to occur, the embryo must split open to release the cells inside. These cells then stick or adhere to the wall of the uterus. Occasionally there is concern that the transferred embryo in an IVF cycle does not open up to release the cells inside. If there is any suspicion that this may be the case, on day 3 of incubation, the embryologist will perforate the outer covering of the embryo safely making a hole using a low temperature laser. By creating this weak point in the embryo covering, the cells inside should be released to increase the probability of implantation and pregnancy.