Blastocyst culture

After 5 to 6 days of fertilization, the embryo is known as a blastocyst.

What are stages of embryo development?

Day 0- is the day of egg pickup and sperm are either placed around the eggs (IVF) or are injected into the eggs (ICSI).

Day 1- The egg is fertilized by the sperm.

Day 3- The embryo has about 6 to 8 cells.

Day 5 or 6- It is now in a stage called blastocyst which comprises of a fluid-filled cavity (blastocoel), an outer layer of cells (trophectoderm which later forms placenta) and inner cell mass (ICM) which later develops into a fetus.

What are stages of embryo development?

A.

It is better for PGT (Pre-implantation genetic testing)- Blastocyst stage embryo provides enough biopsy material from trophectoderm as compared to Day 3 embryos.

B.

Fewer embryos need to be transferred- Due to better implantation potential couples can be offered single embryo transfer (SET), reducing the risk of multiple pregnancies.

C.

Improves embryo selection- All day 3 embryos will not reach day 5 stage. Embryos or blastocysts stage have their own genomic control and have already paved the maternal to zygotic transition.

Limitations and considerations-

Increased chance of cycle cancellation especially in poor ovarian reserve patients due to lack of availability of an embryo in blastocyst stage.

Indications of blastocyst transfer-

A.

Patients with multiple good quality cleavage (Day 2/3) stage.

B.

Previous failed day 3 transferred embryos.

C.

Couples who need SET.

D.

Couples who need PGT.

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