Laser Assisted Hatching

Empowering Women's Health

PROMOTING FEMALE HEALTH AT EVERY STAGE

What is Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH)?

Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) is an advanced laboratory technique used during IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) to improve the chances of embryo implantation. It involves creating a small opening in the outer shell of the embryo (called the zona pellucida) using a highly focused laser beam. This helps the embryo “hatch” more easily and attach to the uterine wall, which is a crucial step for a successful pregnancy.

For whom is LAH recommended?

Laser Assisted Hatching is not required for every IVF patient. It is usually advised in the following cases:

Women over 37 years – The outer shell of the embryo tends to be harder and thicker with age.
Patients with previous failed IVF cycles – LAH may improve implantation chances in such cases.
Frozen-thawed embryos – Freezing can sometimes harden the zona pellucida.
Poor embryo quality or slow development – Embryos struggling to hatch on their own may benefit from assisted hatching.
Elevated FSH levels or unexplained infertility – These factors can indicate underlying issues with embryo implantation.

Our fertility specialists at Sriram Hospitals evaluate each case to decide if LAH is necessary.

What is the process and how is it done?

At Sriram Hospitals, LAH is performed by experienced embryologists in a sterile, high-tech IVF lab. Here’s how the procedure works:

Timing: It is usually done on Day 3 embryos or just before the frozen embryo transfer.
Microscopic Precision: Using a laser microscope system, a few quick laser pulses are applied to create a precise, tiny hole (5–10 microns) in the embryo’s shell.
Safe & Non-invasive: The laser is non-contact, which means it doesn’t physically touch the embryo. It avoids chemical or mechanical risks and minimizes any stress or damage.
Embryo Transfer: After LAH, the embryo is transferred into the uterus as per the IVF schedule.

The entire procedure takes just a few seconds and is done under carefully controlled lab conditions.

Screening Tests Before Laser Assisted Hatching

Before undergoing LAH, our fertility specialists recommend the following evaluations:
Hormonal Profile: To check ovarian reserve and overall hormonal balance (FSH, AMH, LH, TSH, Prolactin)
Ultrasound Scan: To assess the uterus and endometrial lining
Semen Analysis: To evaluate sperm health
Infectious Disease Screening: HIV, Hepatitis B/C, VDRL
Genetic Screening (if necessary): In couples with recurrent implantation failure or miscarriages
Embryo Quality Assessment: To evaluate which embryos may benefit most from LAH

Conclusion

At Sriram Hospitals, our experienced fertility team uses advanced techniques like Laser Assisted Hatching to improve IVF success rates, especially in challenging cases. With high-end technology, personalized care, and strict lab protocols, we strive to give you the best chance at achieving pregnancy.

If you’ve had multiple IVF failures or are above 35, speak to our fertility specialists to see if LAH can help you.