I was told I need assisted hataching.

[Anonymous]

What is this, why is it done, how is it done, and will it hurt?

[Anonymous]

My understanding is that assisted hatching is a procedure used to help the embryo break out of it's cellular container (for lack of a better word). I think it is called the zona pelicula. As eggs get older the outer shell gets tougher and harding to penetrate. So once fertilization occurs (sometimes via ICSI for similar reasons), around the 5 day mark, the embryologist puts a fluid on the outer shell that thins it and makes it easier for the embryo to break through and attach to the uterine lining. Assisted hatching doesn't hurt you at all (since it occurs in the lab with the embryo). Assisted hatching can also be used post-thaw to help previously frozen embryos hatch.

One note, it is a separate charge. Not included in the IVF/transfer fee - at least at my clinic.

[Anonymous]

At what age do they decide assured hatching is necessary?

[Anonymous]

We did this. I don't know if it made a difference but we had success that round.

In my case it was recommended because of my age - 39 at the time. The RE collects the eggs as they would for a regular IVF round and "scores" the outside to encourage the egg to fertilize and grow. The idea is that the outside of the egg gets harder as women get older.

Its no big deal (assuming you are already going through IVF) and makes zero difference in your own personal/physical experience.

[Anonymous]

I just had an FET using assisted hatching and am 36. In our case, we figured it best to eliminate as many barriers as possible since we've had no luck after 3 years of trying. Also, we are fortunate in that it was covered by our insurance. I would say previous unsuccessful IVFs would also be a reason to use assisted hatching.