Performed in conjunction with an IVF cycle and prior to day 3 embryo transfer, assisted hatching involves an embryologist using a laser to thin the zona pellucida (embryo’s outer shell) in order to make it easier for the embryo to shed its cell coat and implant (attach to the uterus).
Above, a-d: The assisted hatching process, including opening of the embryo's
zona pellucida and removal of fragments obstructing the embryo's hatching.
Assisted hatching may be useful for patients with embryos with harder or thicker zona pellucida, and for patients who have previously not succeeded with IVF.