Steps of Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH)
Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) is a multi-step procedure that is typically used in conjunction with in-vitro fertilization (IVF) to increase the chances of successful embryo implantation. Here are the steps involved in the procedure:
Fertilization: The first step in the LAH process is to fertilize the eggs using sperm in the laboratory. This is typically done through IVF, where eggs are removed from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a dish.
Day 3 Embryo Development: The fertilized eggs are then incubated for a period of 2-3 days, during which time they develop into embryos.
Embryo Selection: On the third day, the embryos are evaluated by the embryologist to select the most viable ones for further development.
Laser Assisted Hatching: The embryologist will then use a laser beam to create a small hole in the outer layer (zona pellucida) of the selected embryos. This allows the developing cells to hatch out and increase their chances of implanting in the uterine lining.
Embryo Transfer: The hatched embryos are then transferred to the uterus two or three days later.
Pregnancy Test: A pregnancy test is typically done two weeks after the embryo transfer to confirm if the procedure was successful.