Our goal in embryo culturing is to support embryos as they develop naturally to the blastocyst stage, typically on day 5–6. Reaching this stage allows for a more precise selection of embryos for transfer or freezing, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Embryos can be cultured either in traditional incubators or in advanced time-lapse incubators. In traditional incubators, embryologists assess embryo development at regular intervals by briefly removing the embryos from the incubator to an external microscope on certain days.
In time-lapse incubators, embryos do not need to be removed from the incubator at all. These incubators are equipped with an integrated camera and microscope that automatically capture images of the embryos at regular intervals. Thousands of images are compiled into a video, allowing embryologists to closely monitor embryo development and the timing of cell divisions under stable, optimal conditions for the embryos.
Continuous imaging inside the incubator minimizes the need for handling. This means no temperature or gas fluctuations, creating a consistent environment where embryos can thrive.
Continuous monitoring in time-lapse incubators allows for more precise assessment and selection of embryos. Evaluation is not based on single snapshots in time, but on the embryo’s entire developmental journey.
