What is Laser-Assisted Hatching, and Can It Improve IVF Implantation?

The Challenge of Embryo Implantation

Before an embryo can implant into the uterine lining, it must break out of its protective outer shell (the zona pellucida). This natural process is called hatching. In some cases, the outer shell is abnormally thick or hardened, preventing the embryo from escaping and leading to implantation failure. This is where Laser-Assisted Hatching (LAH) provides crucial support.

How Laser-Assisted Hatching Works

During LAH, our chief embryologist uses a highly precise, computer-controlled laser inside our cleanroom lab to make a microscopic opening or thinning in the outer shell of the embryo just before the transfer. This thinned area makes it much easier for the embryo to hatch and attach itself to the endometrium.

Who Benefits from Laser-Assisted Hatching?

LAH is not required for every patient, but is highly recommended for:

• Advanced Maternal Age: Women over 35 often have eggs with harder outer shells.
• Repeated Implantation Failure: Couples who have had failed IVF cycles despite transferring good-quality embryos.
• Using Frozen-Thawed Embryos: The freezing and thawing process can sometimes harden the zona pellucida.
• Poor Embryo Quality: Embryos that need a gentle helping hand to successfully hatch.