Birth

Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) is an advanced lab technique used along with IVF or IVF-ICSI processes (patient-specific) designed to aid the efficiency of an embryo to hatch and implant in the uterus successfully.

A shell called zona pellucida surrounds the unfertilised egg. The zona has an important role in fertilization as it allows only one sperm to penetrate and enter the egg to achieve fertilisation. After fertilisation, the fertilised eggs are kept in the lab for 2 - 5 days allowing them to divide and develop into an embryo. At the cleavage stage of the embryo, the zona pellucida hardens. This is normal and serves to keep the cells of the embryo together. Then the embryo is transferred to the uterus. A fertilised egg or an embryo do not guarantee a pregnancy; for implantation to happen, this zona protective shell breaks out naturally and the embryo is implanted on the uterus wall resulting in a successful conception.

But in some cases, the zona layer of the embryo becomes harder, making hatching difficult and hence preventing the embryo from implantation in the uterus resulting in failed conception, an failed IVF as well. Laser assisted hatching creates a small crack on zona before inserting the embryo in the uterus to help successful hatching and implantation leading to pregnancy.

Success Rate ?

Laser assisted hatching increases the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy from 55% to almost 65%.

How Does LAH Work?
Is LAH for Me ?

How Does LAH Work?

LAH procedure is carried out on the 3rd day of fertilisation when the embryo is still in the lab. In this technique, a specialised laser is used to create a breach in zona pellucida. Laser shots soften the zona pellucida, which helps to create an opening. Then, the embryo(s) is transferred to the uterus. This helps the embryo in hatching and implanting in the endometrial lining of the uterus resulting in a successful conception.

Laser technology allows a more controlled approach and is the safest and most effective technique. The laser will not come in direct contact with the embryo and is performed with utmost delicacy and precision. This procedure ensures the safety of the embryo.

Though making a small crack in the zona pellucida sounds like a simple technique, it involves precise procedures and a skilled technician to perform it. The whole process is fairly quick and takes only a few seconds.

What about the Precaution ?

This is an advanced technology and IVF procedure includes this depending on the cases. So the process does not require any specific precaution; common IVF process precautions should be followed.

Advantages

Faster Method

When laser assisted hatching is compared with other assisted hatching procedures, it is faster and more accurate.
No Damage

LAH procedure does not involve manual handling of the embryo; hence there are fewer chances of any damage.
Accuracy

Accuracy of the laser is predetermined in the programme, which ensures the safety of the embryo.
Higher Chance of Pregnancy

Laser assisted hatching boosts the success rate of pregnancy.

Risk Factors

in Laser Assisted Hatching

Embryo Damage

One of the possible risks is embryo might get lethally injured. This can happen before the embryo transfer or after. In any case, pregnancy will not occur. But the chance is rare.
No Pregnancy

Even after LAH, the embryo might fail to hatch completely.
Multiple Pregnancy

LAH can also result in multiple pregnancies. Generally, IVF is associated with multiple pregnancies, and LAH procedure increases this risk further. This leads to high-risk pregnancies but is seen in less than 1% cases.