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Assisted Hatching

What Is Assisted Hatching?

Assisted hatching is a procedure used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment to help the embryo hatch out of its protective layering (zona pellicuda).  Successful birthing requires that the embryo break out of this protective protein layer so that it can attach itself to the walls of uterus.  When the zona pellicuda is too thick or if the embryo lacks sufficient energy, surgeons rely on assisted hatching to create a small hole in the outer lining so that the embryo can break out.  

Assisted hatching requires great skill and is usually performed on the fourth day of development of the embryo using micromanipulation.  The embryologist first places the embryo in a lab dish and holds it in place using a pipette.  Next, a hollow needle containing acidic solution is placed next to the zona pellicuda, creating a small hole in it.  The embryo is then rinsed in a special solution and placed in an incubator till embryo transfer is scheduled.   

Assisted hatching is not suitable in call cases.  It is mainly used when the mother has gone through several unsuccessful IVF cycles, is over 37 years old, has high FSH levels on the third day of her menstrual cycle, or has unusually thick zona pellicuda.  The treatment has a fairly high success rate with almost 49% of women between the ages of 35-39 reporting successful pregnancies.