EmbryoGlue

EmbryoGlue is a specialised transfer medium used during IVF treatment to support embryo implantation. It is enriched with hyaluronan, a naturally occurring substance found in the female reproductive tract that helps embryos attach to the uterine lining.

At Sunfert, we incorporate EmbryoGlue into all IVF cycles as part of our fertility treatment to improve implantation conditions.

Quick answer:

EmbryoGlue is applied by placing the embryo in the solution before transfer to support embryo implantation in the uterus.

Notes:

• Solution: A liquid mixture in which one or more substances are evenly dissolved to create a uniform environment, often used in medical or laboratory procedures.
• Medium: A specially formulated liquid environment that supports biological processes, such as embryo development or transfer, by maintaining optimal conditions for cells.
• Hyaluronan: Hyaluronan used in EmbryoGlue is a laboratory-produced (synthetic or bioengineered) form of a naturally occurring substance found in the human body. It is manufactured under strict medical-grade conditions to replicate the same structure and function as natural hyaluronan, ensuring safety and consistency for use in IVF treatments.

Key features of EmbryoGlue:

• rich in hyaluronan to support embryo adhesion
• designed to improve the implantation rate

Clinical studies have reported that the use of EmbryoGlue during embryo transfer is associated with improved IVF outcomes.

A Cochrane Review, which evaluates multiple high-quality clinical studies, reported that the live birth rate increased from 33.3% to 40.2% when EmbryoGlue was used as part of the embryo transfer process.

This improvement is believed to be associated with its high hyaluronan content, which helps create a more supportive and receptive environment in the uterus, potentially enhancing embryo attachment during implantation.

At Sunfert, we provide EmbryoGlue to all our patients at no additional charge, as it can help improve implantation rates, which play an important role in overall IVF success.

EmbryoGlue is incorporated as part of our standard embryo transfer protocol for all eligible IVF patients. We adopt this approach as part of our commitment to evidence-informed reproductive care, aiming to optimise implantation conditions and support patients throughout their fertility journey.

Step 1: Embryo Preparation

The selected embryo is placed into the EmbryoGlue solution.

Before embryo transfer, our embryology team carefully selects the most suitable embryo based on its developmental quality and clinical plan. The embryo is then gently placed into EmbryoGlue.

This step is done in a highly controlled laboratory environment to maintain optimal conditions. The aim is to allow the embryo to be surrounded by a supportive medium that mimics the natural environment of the uterus, preparing it for transfer.

Step 2: Incubation

The embryo is incubated for a short period to allow absorption of the medium.

During this time, the embryo interacts with the hyaluronan-rich environment, which helps enhance adhesion properties.

This exposure is carefully timed and monitored by our embryologists to ensure the embryo remains in an ideal condition. The process is gentle and does not affect embryo viability; instead, it prepares the embryo for a more receptive transfer environment.

Step 3: Embryo Transfer

After incubation, the embryo is loaded into a fine transfer catheter together with a small amount of EmbryoGlue. Our fertility specialist then performs the embryo transfer under ultrasound guidance.

The procedure is quick and minimally invasive. The embryo is carefully placed into the uterine cavity, where EmbryoGlue helps support the initial interaction between the embryo and the uterine lining, potentially enhancing implantation conditions.

If you are facing fertility challenges or considering sperm freezing for future family planning, start with a consultation at Sunfert. We will guide you through your fertility journey with expertise and compassionate care. 

Make an appointment with our Fertility Specialist today and take the next step toward your parenthood goals.

Question #1: Does EmbryoGlue increase IVF success rates?

• Yes. IVF Success Rates often refer to Clinical Pregnancy Rate and Implantation Rate, while EmbryoGlue can help to improve implantation and pregnancy rates.

Question #2: Is EmbryoGlue safe?

• Yes, EmbryoGlue is safe. It contains substances naturally present in the body and has been widely used in many of our IVF treatments at Sunfert.

Question #3: Is EmbryoGlue necessary for every IVF cycle?

• No, EmbryoGlue is not necessary for all patients. In many fertility centres, it is only offered to selected patients as an optional add-on, often due to additional costs.
• At Sunfert, however, we include EmbryoGlue for all eligible patients at no additional charge. We do this because we believe it can enhance the embryo implantation conditions and help our patients achieve a successful pregnancy in a more timely and supported IVF journey.

Question #4: Does EmbryoGlue change the embryo transfer procedure?

• No, the procedure remains largely the same. It does not increase discomfort or require additional recovery time.