Houston Assisted Hatching

Assisted Hatching is a laboratory technique used during IVF where a small opening is made in the embryo’s outer shell, called the zona pellucida. This may help the embryo “hatch” and attach to the uterine lining, potentially supporting implantation in select cases.

AH may be considered for patients with prior failed IVF cycles, advanced maternal age, frozen embryo transfers, or embryos with thicker outer shells. The recommendation is individualized based on clinical history and laboratory findings.

No. Assisted Hatching is not routinely performed for all IVF patients. It is selectively recommended when specific factors suggest that hatching or implantation may be more challenging.

The procedure is done in the embryology laboratory under a high-powered microscope. A laser or micromanipulation tool gently thins or creates a small opening in the embryo’s outer shell before transfer.

No. Assisted Hatching is performed on the embryo in the laboratory and does not involve any additional procedure for the patient. It does not cause discomfort beyond the standard IVF process.

For certain patient groups, such as those with previous implantation failure, AH may offer potential benefits. However, it does not guarantee success and is not universally helpful for every IVF cycle.

When performed by experienced embryologists under controlled conditions, AH is considered safe. Strict laboratory standards and precise equipment help minimize risk during the procedure.

Yes. AH is sometimes recommended during frozen embryo transfer cycles, particularly if the embryo’s outer shell appears thicker after thawing or if there is a history of implantation difficulty.

Risks are generally low when performed properly, but as with any laboratory manipulation, there is a small potential for embryo damage. Careful technique and quality controls reduce this risk.

Your fertility specialist will review your medical history, embryo development, and prior outcomes before recommending AH. The decision is personalized and discussed in detail during your treatment planning.