The biggest challenge in IVF success is to select the best embryo for transfer which will develop as a normal pregnancy. Most common reason for embryos not implanting is a genetic abnormality in the embryos.
There are very good monitoring parameters to judge which embryo is better. That includes egg quality, embryo development speed, embryo quality etc. However, better techniques are required.
Culturing the embryos in IVF lab till blastocyst stage – blastocyst culture, Preimplantation genetic testing – PGS– PGT – A, are the two best options. Blastocyst culture has many advantages over PGS. It is non-invasive on embryos, simpler to do, much less expensive also. The limitation is that it does not tell about the actual genetic constitution of the embryos.
When an embryo becomes 5 to 6 days old, it reaches a stage of development which is called “ BLASTOCYST ”. In natural conception, the sperm fertilizes the egg in the fallopian tube. The embryo grows in the fallopian tube and slowly moves towards the uterus. An embryo reaches the uterus – endometrium after 4 to 6 days of fertilization at the blastocyst stage.
All embryos which look good on day 2 or 3 of development may not develop further. If we culture them for more days, only the good quality embryos of them may develop further and reach the blastocyst stage successfully. The remaining stop developing at various stages in between. It is impossible to know which embryos will reach the blastocyst stage.
We can select and transfer one or two blastocysts and still achieve a very good pregnancy rate. This is called Blastocyst Culture.
Blastocyst culture may be recommended for women with:
Blastocyst culture is recommended for all women undergoing IVF. All patients where selection of embryo is possible, blastocyst culture is recommended. If there are very less number of embryos then blastocyst culture decision should be taken after consultation with your doctor.
There are several benefits to blastocyst culture and transfer, including:
There are also some risks associated with blastocyst culture and transfer, including:
The number of embryos that reach the blastocyst stage varies depending on the woman’s age and other factors. In general, about 30-60% of embryos will develop into blastocysts.
Vary depending on individual factors, but generally higher than earlier-stage embryo transfers.
Yes, there is usually an extra cost for blastocyst culture and transfer. This is because it is a more complex procedure than transferring earlier-stage embryos.
The wait time can feel agonizing, but it usually takes 10-14 days after blastocyst transfer to get a definitive answer. This is because it takes time for the embryo to implant in the uterus and start producing detectable levels of pregnancy hormones. Most clinics pregnancy blood test around this time, confirm the results.
While there’s no guaranteed formula for success, some lifestyle changes might be beneficial:
Before Transfer:
After Transfer:
Remember, these are general recommendations, and your doctor may have specific advice based on your individual situation.
Several factors affect success rates, including:
Unfortunately, this can happen, but it doesn’t mean there aren’t options.
While older women generally have lower pregnancy rates, blastocyst culture can offer some advantages:
However, it’s important to remember that age remains a significant factor in pregnancy success, and blastocyst culture doesn’t guarantee success.
If embryos don’t develop to blastocysts, alternative options include:
Ultimately, the best course of action depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Discussing these options with your IVF doctor can help you make informed decisions.
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