Laser-Assisted Hatching (LAH) Treatment In Gurgaon

Laser-assisted hatching (LAH) is an advanced technique used with IVF to increase the chances of successful embryo implantation. If you have experienced IVF failure for no apparent reason, assisted hatching may help by aiding the attachment of embryos to the woman's womb.

With the LAH procedure, a highly precise infrared laser beam is used to gently remove the outer layer called the zona pellucida. This modern approach minimizes embryo manipulation compared to traditional methods involving chemicals or mechanical processes.

During the IVF process, fertilized eggs are nurtured in the laboratory for a few days to aid their division and development into embryos. These embryos are transferred into the woman's uterus to achieve pregnancy. Normally, the zona pellucida breaks down naturally for implantation.

However, in some cases, the zona pellucida becomes too rigid, making it difficult for the embryo to rupture and implant. This may cause female infertility. Laser-assisted hatching creates a small crack in the layer before implantation of the embryo, facilitating successful implantation and increasing the chances of pregnancy.

Laser-assisted hatching (LAH) isn't used in every in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, but it can be a beneficial tool in certain situations. Here's a breakdown of when LAH might be necessary:

Thickened Zona Pellucida:

• The main reason for LAH is a thick or hardened zona pellucida. This is the protective shell surrounding the embryo.
• A healthy embryo naturally hatches from the zona pellucida before implantation in the uterus.
• If the zona pellucida is too thick, it can hinder this hatching process, reducing the chances of implantation and successful pregnancy.
• LAH creates a small opening in the zona pellucida, assisting the embryo in hatching at the right time.

Other Potential Needs for LAH:

• Advanced Maternal Age: As women age, the zona pellucida may become less elastic and more difficult for the embryo to break through.
• Multiple IVF Failure: If you've undergone previous IVF cycles with good-quality embryos that haven't been implanted, LAH might be considered in subsequent cycles.
• High FSH Levels: Elevated levels of Follicle follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can be associated with a thicker zona pellucida.

The Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) procedure is a precise and delicate process performed on embryos during In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycles. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Preparation (Embryo Selection)

   • After fertilization has occurred and the embryos have begun to develop (usually around 3 days), a skilled embryologist will carefully examine them under a high-powered microscope.
   • Only healthy embryos at a specific stage of development (cleavage stage) are considered for LAH.

2. Positioning and Visualization

   • The chosen embryo is gently held in place using specialized equipment within the incubator to minimize handling time outside the ideal environment.
   • The embryologist will meticulously position the embryo for optimal laser application under the microscope.

3. Laser Application

   • A specialized infrared laser is used to create a small opening in the zona pellucida, the tough outer shell surrounding the embryo.
   • The laser beam is precisely focused and controlled to ensure minimal contact time and avoid harming the delicate embryo itself. The zona pellucida is targeted at a specific location away from the embryo.

4. Completion and Monitoring

   • The entire LAH procedure typically takes only a few seconds, minimizing any stress on the embryo.
   • After creating the breach, the embryologist will closely examine the embryo to ensure its health and viability.

5. Post-LAH Care

   • The embryo is then returned to the incubator to continue its development under controlled conditions.
   • The embryologist will continue to monitor the embryo's progress for potential transfer into the uterus during the IVF cycle.

Note: It's crucial to note that LAH is not routinely performed in every IVF cycle. The decision to utilize LAH is made by the fertility specialist in consultation with the couple based on factors like embryo quality, zona pellucida thickness, and past IVF experiences.

Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) is a helpful procedure in IVF, but its success can be influenced by various factors mentioned below:

Embryo Characteristics

• Zona Pellucida Thickness: The primary purpose of LAH is to address a thick or hardened zona pellucida. If the zona pellucida isn't significantly thickened, LAH might not offer a substantial benefit.
• Embryo Quality: The overall health and developmental stage of the embryo play a crucial role. LAH is unlikely to improve the chances of a poor-quality embryo implanting successfully.

LAH Technique

• Precision of Laser: The success of LAH relies on creating a precise opening in the zona pellucida without damaging the embryo. A skilled embryologist and well-maintained laser equipment are essential.
• Location of Hatch: The ideal location of the opening created by the laser can influence the embryo's hatching process. Experienced embryologists aim for specific zones on the zona pellucida.

Other IVF Factors

• Endometrial Receptivity: A healthy uterine lining receptive to implantation is critical for pregnancy success, regardless of LAH.
• Underlying Fertility Issues: Underlying causes of infertility beyond embryo hatching difficulties can still impact implantation success.

General Considerations

• LAH is not a guarantee: While LAH can improve implantation rates in some cases, it's not a guaranteed method for achieving pregnancy.
• Limited Research: Ongoing research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of LAH in all IVF scenarios.
• Individualized Approach: The decision to use LAH should be made on a case-by-case basis by your fertility specialist considering your specific situation.

Note: By understanding these factors that can affect LAH success, you can have a more informed discussion with your doctor about whether LAH might be a suitable option for your IVF cycle.

While Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) is generally considered a safe procedure, there are some potential risks to be aware of:

• Accidental Embryo Damage: The most concerning risk is accidental damage to the embryo during the LAH procedure. The laser beam, though precise, can potentially harm the delicate embryo if not controlled exceptionally well. This is why the experience and skill of the embryologist performing LAH are crucial.
• Premature Hatching: LAH creates an opening in the zona pellucida, and there's a slight possibility that the embryo might hatch too early due to the breach. Ideally, the embryo hatches on its own at the right time during implantation in the uterus. Premature hatching could reduce implantation success.
• Limited Long-Term Data: LAH is a relatively new technique, and long-term data on its potential effects on embryo development and pregnancy outcomes is still being gathered.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• The likelihood of these risks occurring is generally low.
• A skilled embryologist using advanced equipment can minimize these risks.
• The potential benefits of LAH, such as improved implantation rates, may outweigh the risks for some patients.

Note: It's important to discuss these potential risks with your fertility specialist during the consultation process for LAH. They can address your specific concerns and help you determine if LAH is the right option for your situation.

Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) is a technique used in assisted reproductive technology to increase the chances of implantation, pregnancy, and birth rates. LAH is superior to other forms of assisted hatching such as chemical and manual, thanks to various advantages:

1. LAH is recommended by experts for its significant benefit of increasing the chances of implantation, pregnancy, and birth rates.
2. LAH is gentle and safe, with no adverse effects on the embryo.
3. LAH involves less manual handling of the embryo, hence reducing the risk of any damage to the embryo.
4. LAH provides quick and accurate control over the drilling of the shell opening.
5. LAH has a rare or no risk of congenital disabilities in babies.

Visit Neelkanth IVF Hospital, Gurgaon, and book an appointment with our IVF specialist Dr. Bindu Garg to discuss your pregnancy concerns and receive the most effective treatment.

Visit Neelkanth IVF and Infertility Hospital in Gurgaon and consult Dr. Bindu Garg, one of the most successful IVF doctors. At her hospital, she uses laser-assisted hatching procedures with IVF when it is necessary.

Dr. Bindu Garg has 42+ years of experience in ART procedures, reproductive health treatment, and gynecology. She is the founder of Neelkanth IVF & Infertility Hospital. She has done more than 20,000 + successful deliveries during her career and performed thousands of procedures related to IVF, IUI, ICSI, obstetrics, and gynecology.