Assisted hatching (AH) is a lab technique that was first suggested in the 1980s. It was developed after fertility experts observed that embryos with a thin zona pellucida (shell) had a higher rate of implantation during in vitro fertilization (IVF).
In AH, an embryologist uses a microscope to create a small hole in the zona pellucida. This allows the mass of cells inside the embryo to more easily escape. AH is used by many IVF programs to improve IVF success. Some common indications for suggesting a AH procedure are:
- Advanced maternal age (>37 years old)
- Patients with elevated Day 3 follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Thick and/or abnormal egg shell
Assisted hatching is generally performed on the third day of embryo development. The embryologists use a laser to create a very small hole in the zona pellucida. Assisted hatching can also be done on previously frozen and thawed embryos.
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