A Valuable Member Of Your IVF Team
In vitro fertilization (IVF) has become the gold standard for assisting those with severe infertility challenges. The procedure involves creating viable embryos outside of the body using sperm samples and eggs extracted from the ovaries. These samples create healthy embryos, which are then medically implanted in each IVF cycle. IVF is a complex process that requires a team of skilled medical professionals and administrative support. Perhaps the most important member of the team is the embryologist that is charged with the responsibility for the development of embryos. An embryologist’s skill can even go so far as to boost IVF success rates.
Understanding your embryologist
An embryologist is a skilled laboratory scientist with a deep understanding of fertility treatments, biology, and genetics. This individual has advanced degrees and training in reproductive biology, embryology, or related fields. The main role of the embryologist is to handle and process sperm and eggs retrieved from patients during IVF. Successful handling leads to the development of embryos necessary for the next steps of IVF. Embryologists work in controlled environments with specialist equipment like microscopes, incubators, pipettes, and cryopreservation equipment. Here are the 3 ways the embryologist can use skills to increase the success of each IVF cycle.
1. Fertilization and handling under optimal conditions
The best embryologists use precision and strict handling standards to produce high-quality embryos. The embryologist receives the extracted follicles to analyze and prepare for fertilization. The delicate handling of sperm samples also falls under the purview of embryologists. Sperm analysis and sperm washing ensure the sample is prepared for fertilization of the eggs. For severe male factor infertility, the embryologist can resort to intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to increase embryo development. By using a single sperm under a microscope, the embryologist can fertilize eggs. In many cases, the skill and experience of the embryologist directly influence fertilization rates, and by extension, IVF success.
2. Embryo selection and grading
An embryologist pays strict attention to the daily development of the embryos. Having someone closely monitor embryo development can reduce the risk of failures. Embryologists also select the best viable embryos from each batch using strict analysis. This selection is done through a standard grading system that helps determine which embryos have the highest potential. Grading starts 2-3 days after fertilization, assessing factors like cell number, symmetry, and cellular debris. During days 5-6, the embryologist grades blastocyst development, inner cell mass, and cells that form the placenta. Accurate grading is directly related to implantation and IVF success.
3. Performing advanced techniques to increase success
Today’s embryologists use advanced features and techniques to assist with embryo development. Embryo culture optimization strategies, like continuous single culture and low oxygen systems, can improve embryo quality. Assisted hatching, for instance, helps with implantation by creating a small crack in the outer shell. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) also happens under the supervision of embryologists, which helps detect any genetic abnormalities that impact embryo development. Embryologists also have a range of cryopreservation, vitrification, and cutting-edge techniques like artificial intelligence (AI) to improve embryo quality and success.
Working together for a better IVF
The embryologist plays a critical role in the success of IVF. From creating and handling embryos to selecting and grading, the embryologist is a key member of the fertility team. The role also continues to evolve with some consulting with patients during treatment. Technology will also be part of being an effective embryologist and moving the practice forward. Discuss the benefits of an effective embryologist with the fertility team.
