What is time-lapse monitoring, and what is its benefit?
During embryo development in the lab, embryologists must check the embryos’ progress and quality before picking the best ones to be transferred back into the uterus. The best embryo environment needs to be stable, with fixed temperatures, oxygen level and a good culture medium. Checking the embryos, however, involves handling the embryo in and out of the incubator daily. Time-lapse monitoring, where regular images are taken of the embryos to record their development, allow embryologists to monitor the embryos without having to remove them from the incubator. This new technology is believed to aid the best embryo selection for IVF.
Is time-lapse monitoring routine for IVF?
No. Time-lapse monitoring is not routine for IVF cycles and facilities are not available at all IVF labs. Your gynaecologist will be able to discuss further with you regarding this technology and if it is advisable in your case.
