Table of Contents
- When undergoing IVF, there are several advanced techniques that can help improve your chances of success. One such technique is Assisted Hatching (AH), which can increase the likelihood of embryo implantation and, ultimately, pregnancy. This blog post will explain what assisted hatching is, how it works, when it's recommended, and how it fits into the comprehensive IVF package at Sama.
- What Is Assisted Hatching?
- How Does the Assisted Hatching Process Work?
- Benefits of Assisted Hatching
- Who Should Consider Assisted Hatching?
- Cost of Assisted Hatching at Sama
- Why Sama Includes Assisted Hatching in Our IVF Package
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When undergoing IVF, there are several advanced techniques that can help improve your chances of success. One such technique is Assisted Hatching (AH), which can increase the likelihood of embryo implantation and, ultimately, pregnancy. This blog post will explain what assisted hatching is, how it works, when it's recommended, and how it fits into the comprehensive IVF package at Sama.
What Is Assisted Hatching?
Assisted hatching is a laboratory technique used during the IVF process. It involves creating a small opening in the outer layer of an embryo (called the zona pellucida) to help it hatch and implant more easily into the uterine lining. The zona pellucida is a protective shell that surrounds the embryo in its early stages, and while this layer naturally breaks down as the embryo develops, sometimes it can be too thick or hard, making it difficult for the embryo to “hatch” and implant.
This is where assisted hatching comes in. By making a small incision in the zona pellucida, the embryologist helps facilitate the embryo’s ability to implant in the uterus.
How Does the Assisted Hatching Process Work?
The assisted hatching process is performed in a controlled lab environment by an experienced embryologist. Here's how the process works:
- Embryo Development: After eggs are retrieved and fertilized in the lab, the embryos are allowed to develop for several days.
- Laser-Assisted Hatching: Once the embryo reaches the blastocyst stage (typically between days 3 and 5 of development), a special laser or acidic solution is used to thin or create a small hole in the zona pellucida.
- Embryo Transfer: After hatching, the embryo is transferred to the uterus, where it can more easily attach to the uterine lining and continue developing.
- Monitoring and Development: Once the embryo is transferred, the same post-transfer care and monitoring apply, including blood tests to check for pregnancy.
Benefits of Assisted Hatching
Assisted hatching has been shown to improve implantation rates, particularly for certain groups of patients. The benefits include:
- Increased Chances of Implantation: Assisted hatching can help embryos with a thicker or tougher zona pellucida, which may otherwise struggle to implant, giving them a better chance at success.
- Optimized for Older Patients: Women over the age of 35 or those with diminished ovarian reserve may benefit from assisted hatching, as these patients are more likely to have embryos with thicker zona pellucida.
- Improved Outcomes After Failed IVF Cycles: If you've gone through IVF before without success, assisted hatching may be recommended to help improve your chances in subsequent cycles.
- Maximizing the Potential of Frozen Embryos: In some cases, embryos that have been frozen and thawed can develop a harder zona pellucida, making assisted hatching useful to help these embryos implant more easily.
Who Should Consider Assisted Hatching?
While assisted hatching is not necessary for every IVF patient, it is particularly beneficial for:
- Women over 35: As ovarian reserve diminishes with age, the zona pellucida can become more resistant, making hatching more difficult.
- Patients with a History of Failed IVF: If you've gone through one or more IVF cycles without success, assisted hatching may give your embryos the extra help they need to implant.
- Patients Using Frozen Embryos: Freezing and thawing embryos can sometimes affect the flexibility of the zona pellucida, making assisted hatching a valuable tool to improve implantation rates.
- Embryos with Thick Zona Pellucida: In some cases, embryologists will note that an embryo has a particularly thick zona pellucida, making assisted hatching a natural next step.
Cost of Assisted Hatching at Sama
Many IVF clinics charge an additional fee for assisted hatching, with costs ranging from $500 to $1,500 per cycle. However, at Sama, we believe in offering comprehensive care to our patients. That’s why assisted hatching is included in the price of IVF at Sama. We ensure that you have access to all the tools that could enhance your chance of success, without hidden fees or additional costs.
Why Sama Includes Assisted Hatching in Our IVF Package
At Sama, we strive to provide you with the best possible outcomes. By including advanced techniques like assisted hatching in our standard IVF package, we ensure you’re getting cutting-edge care that addresses your unique fertility needs. Our data-driven, scientific approach allows us to determine the right protocols for each patient, giving you a personalized and effective fertility treatment experience.
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