Finding the Right Embryo to Implant
A quick and easy technique for screening embryos in IVF procedures could lead to an improved chance of pregnancy.
(sz) Nearly 100,000 in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures are performed in the United States each year. Yet the procedure’s success rate, scientists say, could use a boost. On average, only one in three IVF procedures results in pregnancy. Many women have to undergo repeated trials before having any success. Among successful procedures, nearly one-third result in twins or other multiple pregnancies, presenting a major health risk for both mothers and babies.
Now scientists at Yale University and McGill University have found a noninvasive way to improve IVF’s overall efficiency and decrease the rate of multiple births. By analyzing the fluid surrounding embryos in culture before implantation, the researchers are able to tell which embryos are healthy and viable.
Traditionally, embryologists look for certain characteristics in a healthy embryo. With a microscope, they take stock of how fast an embryo is dividing, the number of cells it has, and its overall shape. However, fertility experts admit that these predictors are far from definitive. “The question is, how much does it tell you?” says David Adamson, incoming president of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. “Something, but not nearly as much as we’d like to know.” more…
From: »Technology Review« (US-edition)