For many couples undergoing IVF, the journey to parenthood can feel like an emotional roller coaster. While IVF has helped millions conceive, some still face implantation failures despite transferring healthy embryos. One advanced technique giving new hope to such couples is Laser-Assisted Hatching (LAH) – a precise, scientifically proven method to improve embryo implantation rates.
If you have experienced repeated IVF failures or have been advised this technique by your fertility expert, understanding how it works can help you feel more confident and hopeful about the process.
What is Laser-Assisted Hatching?
Every egg is surrounded by a protective outer shell called the zona pellucida. After fertilization, this zona hardens naturally to keep the developing embryo’s cells together until implantation. But for successful implantation in the uterus, the embryo must “hatch” out of this shell and attach to the uterine lining.
In IVF, however, embryos sometimes develop a thicker or harder zona pellucida than they would in a natural pregnancy. This makes hatching difficult and can lead to implantation failure.
Laser-assisted hatching is an advanced lab technique where fertility specialists create a tiny opening in the zona pellucida using a highly focused infrared laser. This helps the embryo hatch more easily and improves its chances of implanting into the uterine lining.
Who Can Benefit from Laser-Assisted Hatching?
While not every IVF patient needs assisted hatching, it is particularly beneficial for certain groups of patients:
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Women above 37 years of age – Egg quality and embryo hatching potential reduce with age.
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Patients with high FSH levels – High Follicle Stimulating Hormone levels may affect egg quality and zona hardening.
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Those with repeated IVF or ICSI failures – Especially when the cause of failure is unexplained.
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Frozen embryos with thick zona – Freezing can sometimes harden the zona, making natural hatching difficult.
Your fertility expert will recommend LAH only if they believe it can significantly improve your chances of conception.
How Does Laser-Assisted Hatching Work?
The process of LAH is carried out in the IVF lab, usually on the third day after fertilization, when the embryo has reached the cleavage stage.
Here’s how it works:
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Embryo Selection – Healthy embryos are selected for transfer.
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Laser Precision – A specialized infrared laser is used to create a tiny opening, around 10–20 microns, in the zona pellucida.
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No Direct Contact – The laser does not directly touch the embryo. Instead, it is carefully targeted to soften and thin the zona, ensuring safety.
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Embryo Transfer – After hatching assistance, the embryo is transferred to the uterus where it can implant more easily.
The entire procedure is completed within seconds, making it safe and efficient when performed by experienced embryologists.
Benefits of Laser-Assisted Hatching
Laser-assisted hatching is considered the safest and most effective assisted hatching technique because of its precision and minimal handling of the embryo. Some of its benefits include:
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Higher Implantation and Pregnancy Rates – LAH has shown improved success rates in women with repeated IVF failures.
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Greater Accuracy – The laser’s precision is software-controlled, reducing any manual handling errors.
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Reduced Risk of Damage – Compared to chemical or mechanical hatching methods, LAH poses minimal risk to the embryo.
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Faster Procedure – The process takes only seconds and does not stress the embryo.
Clinical studies have shown that laser-assisted hatching can result in implantation rates of up to 50% in certain patient groups.
Cost of Laser-Assisted Hatching in India
The cost of LAH in India is relatively affordable compared to other countries, making it accessible for many couples seeking fertility treatments.
Approximate Cost
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India (general) – ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per cycle
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Delhi – Costs are slightly lower and more affordable in reputed fertility centers.
When compared to the emotional and financial cost of repeated IVF failures, LAH is considered a worthwhile investment for couples with specific indications.
Is Laser-Assisted Hatching Safe?
Yes, when performed by trained and experienced specialists, LAH is considered safe. The laser does not directly contact the embryo, and the opening is carefully measured to avoid any damage. However, like any medical procedure, it should only be recommended after proper evaluation by your fertility doctor.
Why Choose SCI IVF Hospital for Laser-Assisted Hatching?
If you are considering LAH, choosing the right fertility center is crucial. SCI IVF Hospital is one of the leading fertility hospitals in Delhi, offering advanced IVF techniques, including laser-assisted hatching.
With a team of highly experienced embryologists and state-of-the-art lab facilities, SCI IVF Hospital ensures safety, precision, and personalized care for every couple. Many couples with a history of repeated IVF failures have achieved successful pregnancies here, thanks to advanced technologies like LAH.
Conclusion
Laser-assisted hatching is a breakthrough technology that has given hope to countless couples struggling with repeated IVF failures. By improving the embryo’s ability to implant, LAH has significantly boosted pregnancy rates for those who need it the most.
If you have faced unexplained IVF failures or belong to the high-risk group where LAH is recommended, consulting with an expert fertility specialist is the next step.
The journey to parenthood may have its challenges, but with the right medical guidance and advanced techniques like laser-assisted hatching, success is within reach.
Thank you, Tricky, for providing this opportunity to share informative fertility blogs. Your platform helps reach readers looking for reliable healthcare insights.
