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BLASTOCYST CULTURE

BLASTOCYST CULTURE:- Blastocyst culture is when embryos are grown in a laboratory for a few days. At this point, they are referred to as blastocyst embryos. With advancements in the field of Assisted Reproductive Technology ART, we can culture the embryos for five to six days till they start to form two distinct layers. Allowing the embryos to grow to this blastocyst stage allows us to select and use embryos with the highest developmental potential.

Why Blastocyst Culture

Blastocyst culture is recommended in an IVF cycle if there is a need to perform a single embryo transfer to avoid multiple pregnancies. The most visible embryo for transfer can be chosen if the duration of embryo culture is extended. Moreover, Blastocyst Culture also facilitates the storage of excess healthy embryos by freezing them for later use (Egg Freezing)

Blastocyst Culture and Transfer

In this procedure, embryos from an IVF treatment are cultured in the laboratory till they form two distinct layers – an outer layer of trophectoderm/trophoblastic cells and the inner cell mass (ICM). This stage is known as the blastocyst stage. Not all embryos grow to the blastocyst stage and surviving blastocysts are graded based on the number of cells in the layers as well as growth rate.

The doctor will select the best embryo for transfer and/or freezing. The selected blastocyst is transferred into the uterus with a thin catheter under ultrasound guidance.

You will be asked to take a pregnancy test approximately 12 days after the transfer. During this time, it is recommended that you avoid physical exertion and heavy lifting. Excess blastocysts can be frozen and transferred later.