Assisted Hatching

Assisted Hatching is a specialized micromanipulation procedure performed in the IVF laboratory that can significantly increase the chances of successful embryo implantation in the uterus. It is mainly used in women over 37 years old, in cases of repeated IVF failures, or when embryos have a thick or hardened outer shell. At Fertulity, we use next-generation laser technology and adhere to international quality standards, offering personalized solutions for every patient.

What is Assisted Hatching?

Assisted Hatching (AH) is a specialized micromanipulation technique used in IVF laboratories to enhance an embryo’s ability to implant in the uterus. During its early stages of development, the embryo is surrounded by a transparent protective membrane known as the zona pellucida, which remains until the hatching phase. For implantation to occur, the embryo must exit this shell to attach to the endometrium.
The assisted hatching process involves creating a small hole or thinning the zona pellucida using extremely precise and controlled techniques. This is typically performed using advanced technologies like lasers to facilitate the embryo’s exit from the shell and consequently increase the chances of successful implantation. In some cases, the natural hatching process becomes more difficult. This is often seen in embryos with a thicker or harder zona pellucida, which is more common in women of advanced reproductive age. In such cases, the zona can act as a barrier, reducing the chances of successful attachment to the endometrium. Through assisted hatching, the embryo’s task is made easier. Thinning or opening the zona reduces mechanical barriers and improves the likelihood of implantation. However, this is a procedure that requires careful consideration. If performed without clear indication, it may increase embryo vulnerability and negatively impact the outcome. For this reason, assisted hatching is only performed when deemed absolutely necessary by the responsible embryologist, based on specific embryo characteristics and the woman’s medical history. Proper individualization of care is crucial to ensure optimal IVF outcomes.

When is Assisted Hatching Indicated?

Assisted Hatching is not a standard procedure for every IVF cycle. Rather, it is used selectively in cases where clinical and embryological evidence suggests the embryo may have difficulty hatching from its shell, thereby lowering implantation chances.

Below are the main indications for its use:

Woman's Age Over 37

Age is a key factor affecting embryo quality and implantation potential. In women over 37, the zona pellucida of embryos often becomes thicker or less elastic. These changes can hinder the embryo’s ability to hatch, reducing the likelihood of successful attachment to the endometrium. In such cases, assisted hatching may help the embryo exit and improve implantation rates.

Elevated FSH Levels on Day 3 of the Cycle

High levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) early in the menstrual cycle often indicate diminished ovarian reserve. Women with this profile may produce fewer and lower-quality eggs during IVF. Consequently, resulting embryos may have characteristics that complicate implantation. In these situations, assisted hatching can offer supportive help in facilitating implantation.

Poor-Quality Embryos

Embryos with high fragmentation or slow cell division rates are classified as poor quality. Although they can still be transferred and may lead to pregnancy, they often struggle to naturally hatch from their shell. Assisted hatching aims to overcome this barrier, creating a more favorable environment for implantation.

Embryos with a Thick or Hard Zona Pellucida

Some embryos have an abnormally thick or hard outer shell due to genetic or hormonal factors. This presents a mechanical barrier to hatching. Thinning or opening the zona in such embryos helps eliminate this obstacle and promotes normal development toward implantation.

Repeated IVF Failures

Couples who have undergone one or more unsuccessful IVF cycles without achieving pregnancy may benefit from adding assisted hatching in the next cycle. Used as a supportive intervention, it can enhance implantation chances—especially when there’s no clear reason for previous failures. In practice, assisted hatching is seen as an additional tool in personalized care that may provide a valuable boost toward pregnancy.

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Embryo Stabilization with a Micropipette

The process begins by stabilizing the embryo using a specialized holding micropipette. This tool allows the embryologist to keep the embryo completely still, ensuring precision in the following steps. Stabilization is crucial for the safety and success of the technique.

Application of Acidic Solution to the Zona

Next, a very fine, hollow microneedle is used to apply a mildly acidic solution to the zona pellucida. The acid causes controlled erosion of the shell without harming the embryo’s cells. The goal is to create a small hole or thinning of the membrane to help the embryo exit more easily.

Creation of a Small Hole with Precision

As the acidic solution acts, the outer shell dissolves gradually at the targeted spot. The embryologist closely monitors the process using high-resolution microscopy and stops the application once the desired opening is achieved. The hole is extremely small—just enough to aid natural hatching without causing damage.

Rinsing and Culture Preparation

After hatching is complete, the embryo is gently rinsed to remove any remaining solution and placed in nutrient media inside a specialized incubator. It remains there for a short time under strictly controlled conditions of temperature, humidity, and gases to stabilize and continue its development.

Embryo Transfer and Implantation Preparation

The final step is embryo transfer, which takes place shortly after assisted hatching. During transfer, the embryos are placed inside the woman’s uterus through a painless and non-invasive procedure. If all progresses well, the embryo will implant in the endometrium, ideally leading to a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby.

How Is Assisted Hatching Performed?

Assisted Hatching is a highly specialized and delicate step in the IVF process. It is performed by experienced embryologists in a controlled laboratory environment to help the embryo hatch from its protective shell, the zona pellucida. The procedure requires precision, technical expertise, and meticulous control at every step.

Success Rates & Scientific Data

Assisted Hatching has been linked to significantly improved implantation and pregnancy rates in IVF cycles, especially in couples who meet specific criteria. Published scientific studies indicate that this technique can enhance treatment outcomes in cases of advanced maternal age, reduced embryo quality, or repeated IVF failures. The procedure supports the natural exit of the embryo from the zona pellucida, increasing the chance of attachment to the endometrium.

In our clinic’s laboratory, data confirm the positive impact of assisted hatching on pregnancy rates when the technique is applied with the right criteria. Our experience shows that individualized assessment and strict adherence to quality protocols are key to success. We do not apply the technique indiscriminately but selectively, to harness its benefits without unnecessarily stressing the embryos.

Despite its proven benefits, it’s important to note that assisted hatching is not a cure-all and does not guarantee success in every IVF cycle. It must be performed only by specially trained and experienced embryologists, as any incorrect or rushed manipulation can increase embryo vulnerability and lower implantation chances. Final pregnancy rates depend on many factors: the hatching technique used, lab quality, team experience, and embryo transfer skills. When these elements align, assisted hatching can offer a meaningful advantage in the fertility journey.

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Frequently asked questions about Assisted Hatching

Is the Assisted Hatching procedure painful?

No. The procedure is performed entirely in the embryology lab before embryo transfer and does not involve any intervention in the woman’s body. It causes no pain or discomfort.

How long does the hatching procedure take?

The lab procedure takes just a few minutes per embryo, but it is part of a broader process involving preparation, culture, and evaluation. The overall timeline is adapted to each IVF cycle’s needs.

Is it safe for embryos?

When performed by experienced embryologists using modern equipment and approved protocols, Assisted Hatching is considered safe. Our clinic applies the procedure with full respect for embryo integrity.

Can it be used for frozen embryos (FET)?

Yes, the hatching technique is often applied to frozen-thawed embryos before embryo transfer, as these may have a thicker zona pellucida.

Does it affect the embryo’s sex or quality?

No. Hatching only alters the embryo’s outer shell and does not affect its genetic material, quality, or sex.

Our Doctors

In an era where fertility requires knowledge, care, and substantial guidance, FertUlity is not an impersonal clinic. It is two people who look you in the eye and accompany you step by step on the journey you dream of.

Dr. Maria Oikonomou Obstetrician – Gynecologist

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Dr. Chrysostomos (Makis) Papadopoulos Obstetrician – Gynecologist, MD, PhDc, MIC I

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