Assisted hatching .. thoughts?

[Bozo_the_pumpkin]

Hi… we are considering joining a trial at our clinic using assisted hatching… anyone have any experience, wise words about assisted hatching? Anyone have assisted hatching before double embryo transfer?

[Skittles11]

I've had Assisted hatching done on each of my embryos across three transfers due to a thicker than average zona layer (the outer layer). My first was a single embryo (unsuccessful), second was a double transfer (unsuccessful) and most recent single transfer (positive pregnancy test). Personally I tend to think its a good idea to get involved in trials, it can help you as well as others in the future from the research acquired. And hopefully your clinic can talk you through the benefits and any risks. Good luck xx

[Bozo_the_pumpkin in reply to Skittles11]

Thanks Skittles11. I am doing a double embryo FET - so I have been told I cannot join the trial. I do agree though that it is good to get involved in trials...and to support research in the IVF area. It will be my 3rd transfer as well and I hope that this time it will work for me too

[Bozo_the_pumpkin in reply to Skittles11]

A big Congrats on your BFP!!!

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi Bozo. Assisted hatching can sometimes be beneficial if the "shells" of the egg prove to be a bit difficult to penetrate. The assisted hatching can sometimes prvent the need for ICSI. There are different methods to do the "hatching" process, to be discussed with the embryologist before proceeding. Hope all goes well for you. Diane

[Bozo_the_pumpkin in reply to DianeArnold]

Thanks Diane.. I have read that the shells of embryos that have been frozen can become a bit tough...Thank you - I will check with my clinic regarding the process used

[Cat84]

Our clinic does this as standard as they believe in it so much…they don’t even charge for it separately (which is amazing as they charge for everything!) hope that helps and best of luck!

[Bozo_the_pumpkin in reply to Cat84]

Thank you! Yes it seems that my clinic will also not charge for the process

[Mai94]

It is used as a standard at my clinic particularly for FETs I think, I had it for my last transfer which was double along with embryo glue and an endometrial scratch prior. Currently 11 weeks pregnant so not sure what helped but glad we tried everything!Always had assisted hatching on my previous cycles two one successful for a short time and one unsuccessful! Hope thay helps x

[Bozo_the_pumpkin in reply to Mai94]

Thank you Mai94...would you mind telling me about your endometrial scratch? I've had an ERA in September and I am just wondering if you know whether the scratch still has an impact 2 months later...my embryo transfer will be at the beginning of NovemberMy RE was happy to refer me to the trial and he is happy for us to do assisted hatching on the 2 embryos

[Mai94 in reply to Bozo_the_pumpkin]

Hi, so my clinic told me it can be done up to 2 months before so if it’s within 2 months that should be fine but worth checking your clinics guidance! Assisted hatching was used as a standard with ours and we also added embryo glue. Good luck x

[Bozo_the_pumpkin in reply to Mai94]

I am so happy for your BFP

[HopefullyAMama]

I spoke with my embryologist the day before the thaw and asked about assisted hatching and embryo glue as additional supports given my last transfer was ectopic. She said embryo glue has no real scientifically proven results so dont bother with it but recommended assisted hatching. I then had my transfer which seems to have been a success so far but still very early. After the transfer I read more on assisted hatching and there are pro’s and cons it seems so I would maybe have a chat with your embryologist or consultant to see if it might be suitable for your embryo. Wishing you the very best!

[Bozo_the_pumpkin]

Thank you HopefullyAMama... a huge congratulations on your BFP I will have a chat with the clinic but it sounds like a good plan for me.