Assisted Hatching of Embryos

Before an embryo can implant in the uterus, it must successfully hatch out of its eggshell. Some couples do not conceive in spite of being able to create genetically and biologically "perfect" embryos because their embryos are unable to hatch out.

Assisted embryo hatching is a laboratory procedure that creates a "weak spot" in the eggshell of an embryo. Used primarily for cryopreserved embryos, assisted hatching increases the likelihood of an embryo being able to hatch out, implant, and result in a baby.

Assisted hatching is a microsurgical procedure: Using a specially designed laser, a tiny hole is created in the eggshell. This procedure does not harm the embryo.

The picture above shows an embryo after assisted hatching with an opening breaching the eggshell at the 12 o’clock position.