Assisted Hatching

The embryo is surrounded by a protective envelope(zona pellucida) until the 5th or 6th day of development before it implants in the uterus. In the course of implantation, the embryo hatches out of this envelope and then comes into direct contact with the uterine lining.Hatching is of crucial importance for the uterus-embryo interaction and is normally initiated independently by the embryo.

Under certain circumstances, however, the embryo may not hatch naturally. Reasons for this can be the advanced age of the woman, an above-average thickness or a hardened zona pellucida.

In these cases, a microscopically small opening can be created in the outer cell envelope using a laser - with almost no risk to the embryo. This acts as a predetermined breaking point and thus makes it easier for the embryo to hatch. This is known as "laser assisted hatching", which has been described in several studies as having a positive effect on the hatching process and can ultimately lead to an increased pregnancy rate.

Our UniFee also works successfully with the laser and helps the embryos to "hatch", thus giving couples a higher chance of pregnancy.

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