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Assisted Hatching
The opening in the shell is performed using a chemical or laser technology. A small opening, between 10 to 20 microns, is made to facilitate embryo hatching. This procedure is very quick and can be completed in less an a half a second. This technique is beneficial for older women and for women who previously have not achieved pregnancy with IVF. Several studies have reported that the pregnancy rate for these women increased from 19 to 44 percent.
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During assisted hatching, the shell of the embryo (zona pellucida) is opened using micromanipulation. This helps the embryo shed its outer coating and in certain cases improves implantation and pregnancy rates.