The theory behind 'Assisted Hatching' is that standard IVF fail because the eggs have a thicker outer membrane (zona pellucida). It is also recommended for couples that are older, or where the embryos are of poor quality

Like with ICSI, Assisted Hatching is carried out through micromanipulation. During this procedure, the embryos, which contain an average of 6 - 8 cells, are stabilized and the zona is thinned with LASER shots. The embryos are then returned to the incubator for a few hours before they are transferred into the uterus. Thinning the zona increases the embryos chance of 'hatching', which allows for a better chance of implantation in the endometrium. Also, the hatched embryos are implanted a day early, which is another advantage.

"Assisted hatching increases your chances of conception manifold, particularly if you are older. We have a high success rate with this procedure through Expert Fertility Care." – Expert Medical Team