In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) has emerged as a groundbreaking solution for couples facing infertility issues, providing them the hope of starting or expanding their families. The success of IVF heavily relies on various factors, embryology being one of the most important. According to Dr Vivek Kakkad, Scientific Director, ART Fertility Clinics, India, embryology plays a pivotal role in the entire IVF process, from the egg's fertilisation to the embryo's transfer into the uterus. Additionally, the advancements in embryology have significantly enhanced IVF success rates, greatly improving the chances of a successful pregnancy. Let us understand the fascinating journey of birth through ART.
Understanding Embryology in IVF
Dr Kakkad defines embryology as the study of embryos, covering their development from fertilisation until the end of the eighth week of pregnancy. In the context of IVF procedure, it involves laboratory procedures to create, select, culture, and assess embryos for implantation.
Skilled embryologists closely monitor this process, ensuring the successful fusion of the gametes. After fertilisation, the resulting embryos are meticulously cultured in a controlled environment. Embryologists carefully observe the growth and development of the embryos, assessing their quality and viability. This critical stage requires specialised knowledge, technical expertise, and state-of-the-art equipment to create the ideal conditions for embryo development, adds Dr Kakkad.
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Optimising Fertilisation
“During IVF, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and combined with sperm in the laboratory to facilitate fertilisation. Embryologists play a vital role in this process by ensuring the eggs and sperm are handled and incubated under optimal conditions. They carefully monitor fertilisation and embryonic development to identify potential issues and select the most viable embryos for transfer”, quotes Dr Kakkad. This level of precision and expertise contributes to successfully creating healthy embryos and increases the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Embryo Selection and Genetic Testing
Talking about significant breakthroughs in embryology that have revolutionised IVF success rates, Dr Kakkad credits preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). PGT allows embryologists to analyse the genetic composition of embryos before implantation, identifying any chromosomal abnormalities or genetic disorders. The risk of miscarriage and the chances of a healthy pregnancy improve significantly by selecting genetically normal embryos. PGT has provided renewed hope to couples with a history of genetic conditions, making IVF a more reliable option for building a healthy family.
Also Read: Fresh Vs Frozen Embryo Transfer, Which Is Better?
Here is a detailed video about IVF that you should watch:
Embryo Culture and Development
Dr Kakkad describes that embryologists are skilled in culturing embryos in a controlled environment, providing them with the necessary nutrients and conditions for optimal development. The advancement of time-lapse imaging technology has further enhanced embryologists' ability to closely monitor embryo development without disturbing the delicate process. The detailed insights gained through time-lapse imaging allow embryologists to identify crucial developmental milestones and select the most promising embryos for transfer, increasing the likelihood of successful IVF outcomes.
Cryopreservation and Future Possibilities
Embryologists also play a critical role in the cryopreservation of excess embryos not transferred during the initial IVF cycle. Dr Kakkad explains, “Cryopreservation, also known as embryo freezing, allows couples to preserve viable embryos for future use, offering them the possibility of additional attempts without repeated egg retrieval and stimulation. Additionally, it also benefits individuals who wish to postpone childbearing. The embryologists' expertise in the cryopreservation process ensures that the embryos are frozen and thawed successfully, maintaining their viability for later use.”
Also Read: Doctor Lists Do's and Don'ts After Embryo Transfer For Successful Pregnancy
Single Embryo Transfer (SET)
In the past, multiple embryos were often transferred during IVF to increase the chances of pregnancy. However, this approach also led to a higher risk of multiple pregnancies, which can be associated with complications for both the mother and the babies. Embryologists have played a significant role in promoting the adoption of single embryo transfer (SET) as a safer and more successful alternative. By identifying the healthiest embryo for transfer, embryologists help reduce the chances of multiple pregnancies while maintaining high success rates for IVF procedures.
Advancements in Embryology Techniques
Advancements in embryology techniques have revolutionised the field of assisted reproduction, particularly in in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Sophisticated laboratory methods, including time-lapse imaging, preimplantation genetic testing, and improved cryopreservation methods, have led to higher success rates in IVF procedures.
As per Dr Kakkad, these techniques enable fertility specialists to select the healthiest embryos for transfer, minimising the risk of genetic disorders and increasing the likelihood of successful pregnancies. Moreover, optimised culture conditions and media formulations promote better embryo development, while innovations like single embryo transfer help reduce the chances of multiple pregnancies and associated complications. These groundbreaking developments have transformed reproductive medicine, offering renewed hope to countless aspiring parents worldwide.
Conclusion
The importance of embryology in IVF success cannot be overstated. It plays a critical role in the success of IVF by providing valuable insights into embryo development and aiding in the selection of the most viable embryos. As technology evolves, ongoing research and innovation in embryology techniques will continue to enhance IVF outcomes, offering renewed hope to couples facing infertility.
