Laser Assisted Hatching – LAH

Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH): Purpose, Procedure & Results

What is LAH?

Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) is an advanced IVF technique that enhances embryo implantation by creating a tiny opening in the outer shell of the embryo—called the zona pellucida—using a precision laser. This assists the embryo in “hatching” and attaching to the uterine lining, which is a crucial step for a successful pregnancy.

When Should You Consider LAH?

LAH is particularly recommended in the following cases:

• The embryo’s outer layer is thicker than 16 microns
• Women aged over 35, where natural hatching is often more difficult
• Multiple failed IVF or implantation attempts
• Repeated ICSI failures
• When performing genetic testing (PGS, PGD, or PGT-A)
• Frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles, where the hardening of the zona may occur due to freezing

How LAH Works: The Procedure

Some embryos may fail to implant simply because they can’t break out of their outer shell naturally. LAH helps overcome this hurdle through the following steps:

• Embryo Preparation: Embryos are observed until they reach the right stage for hatching assistance.
• Laser Opening: A highly focused, movable (navi) laser is used to make a small, safe opening in the zona pellucida.
• Implantation Support: Once the embryo hatches, it can better attach to the uterine wall, increasing implantation chances.

Advanced laser systems now allow for more precision and safety compared to older fixed lasers. LAH is also used during blastomere or ectoderm biopsy when genetic testing is required.

Benefits of LAH

• Improved implantation rates, especially in challenging IVF cases
• Higher pregnancy success in older women and those with past failures
• Increased efficiency during genetic screening procedures
• Enhanced embryo performance in frozen cycles