After fertilization takes place in the IVF laboratory, the embryo begins dividing and developing inside a protective protein shell called the zona pellucida. For an embryo to implant in the uterus, it must break out—or “hatch”—from this outer shell and then attach to the uterine lining.
In some cases, embryos may not hatch efficiently on their own. This is where assisted hatching, an advanced laboratory technique, can help.
Assisted hatching is a micromanipulation procedure designed to gently create a small opening in the zona pellucida. This helps the embryo complete the natural hatching process before transfer.
At Kiran Infertility Center, Marichela, our embryologists perform assisted hatching typically at the blastocyst stage (Day 5–6 of development).
The process involves:
This controlled opening helps the embryo hatch more easily once inside the uterus.
Assisted hatching is usually recommended for couples who have a lower chance of implantation, especially when the embryo may struggle to hatch naturally.
It can be helpful for women with:
It may also benefit patients whose embryos have a thick or hardened zona pellucida, which can make natural hatching difficult.
Studies have shown that assisted hatching can improve implantation rates for certain groups of patients, especially those with a poor prognosis or repeated IVF failures.
At Kiran Infertility Center, Marichela, assisted hatching is performed by Dr. Manash Kumar Bhattacharya, one of India’s most experienced and respected embryologists, significantly enhancing the success and safety of the procedure.
Assisted hatching is generally safe when performed by an expert, but like any procedure, it carries some risks, such as:
These risks are greatly minimized when the technique is carried out with precision by skilled embryologists experienced in advanced micromanipulation procedures.
