LASER ASSISTED HATCHING IN IVF - Dr Prashant Joshi IVF Specialist Doctor /Fertility Specialist at Jayanagar Bangalore
Laser assisted hatching (LAH) is a procedure that is sometimes used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) to help improve the chances of success during in vitro fertilization (IVF). During IVF, fertilization occurs outside the body in a laboratory dish. After fertilization, the fertilized egg (embryo) is usually allowed to grow for a few days until it reaches a certain stage of development. At this point, the embryo is transferred to the woman's uterus where it can hopefully implant and grow into a healthy pregnancy.
One of the challenges with IVF is that sometimes the outer shell of the embryo (called the zona pellucida) can be too thick or tough, making it difficult for the embryo to "hatch" or break out of the shell and implant in the uterus. This can reduce the chances of a successful pregnancy. LAH is a technique that can help with this problem by using a laser to create a small opening in the zona pellucida, which allows the embryo to more easily break out and implant.
The LAH procedure is usually performed on day three or day five of embryo development. The embryo is first placed under a microscope and then a laser is used to make a small hole in the zona pellucida. The size and location of the hole can be carefully controlled by the embryologist, and the procedure typically takes only a few seconds to perform.
There is some evidence to suggest that LAH may improve the chances of success during IVF, especially in certain cases such as older women or women with a history of failed IVF cycles. However, the procedure is not without risks. There is a small risk that the laser could damage the embryo during the procedure, and some studies have suggested that LAH may increase the risk of multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.).
Overall, the decision to use LAH should be carefully considered by both the patient and the treating physician. While it may be helpful in certain cases, it is not a guarantee of success and should not be used in all IVF cycles. As with any medical procedure, it is important to fully understand the risks and benefits before making a decision.
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