Assisted Hatching

Assisted Hatching is a laboratory micromanipulation technique that can be performed after an IVF or ICSI cycle, before embryos are transferred to the uterus. Assisted hatching helps the embryo break out of the zona pellucida.

What is the Zona Pellucida?

In the early stages of development, the embryo is surrounded and protected by an outer shell called the zona pellucida. Under normal circumstances, when the embryo reaches the uterus, this zona partially dissolves, allowing the embryo to hatch and implant in the uterine lining.

How is Assisted Hatching Performed?

At Cyprus HOPE IVF, assisted hatching is carried out by our experienced embryologists using a high-powered microscope. A very fine needle is used to make a small incision in the zona. This procedure is performed on selected embryos just before embryo transfer. Once returned to the uterus, the embryo can exit through this opening and implant naturally.

Why is Assisted Hatching Needed?

In some patients, infertility may be related to the hardening of the zona, which can make hatching and implantation more difficult.

Who is Assisted Hatching Suitable For?

Assisted hatching is generally recommended in the following cases:

Women aged 35 and above
Women with high FSH levels
Couples who were unable to achieve pregnancy after previous IVF cycles
Couples whose embryos were noted by the embryologist to have a visibly thickened zona
Frozen embryo transfers

Fertility Preservation Services in Cyprus

At Cyprus Hope Fertility, under the expertise of Op. Dr. Zehra Onar and our experienced team, we offer advanced egg, sperm, and embryo freezing services in Northern Cyprus. Protect your fertility and safeguard your reproductive health for the future by contacting us today.