Assisted hatching is a laboratory procedure used to create a "weak spot" in the
eggshell of an embryo. For selected couples, this increases the likelihood of the embryo hatching out of the
eggshell, implanting and resulting in a live birth.
We perform assisted hatching for the following indications:
- History of unsuccessful assisted reproductive technology treatment(s)
- History of an elevated FSH level:
8.0 or greater (younger than 38 years) or 6.0 or greater (38 years and older)
- Cryopreserved embryo transfer
Assisted hatching is a microsurgical procedure. The embryologists steady an embryo at a time
under a microscope and use specially designed laser to create a tiny hole in the egg shell.
The laser beam does not penetrate past the egg shell inside the embryo.
Acid egg shell "drilling" is not used at Nova.
