Time-Lapse Embryo Imaging is an advanced IVF technology that continuously monitors embryo development inside a stable incubator without removing embryos for observation.
It captures high-resolution images at regular intervals to track key developmental stages such as cell division and embryo growth, helping embryologists assess embryo quality more precisely.
Time-lapse imaging improves embryo selection by providing continuous developmental data instead of static snapshots.
It allows embryologists to evaluate timing of cell division, growth patterns, and morphology changes, helping identify embryos with better developmental potential for transfer or freezing.
Traditional embryo monitoring involves removing embryos from the incubator for periodic checks, which provides limited snapshots.
Time-lapse imaging keeps embryos inside a controlled incubator and records continuous development, reducing disturbance and improving accuracy in embryo assessment.
EmbryoScope Plus is an advanced and industry leading time-lapse incubator used in IVF laboratories to continuously monitor embryo development.
It combines incubation, time-lapse imaging, and AI analysis in one integrated system, allowing embryos to develop in a stable environment while being automatically recorded for detailed assessment.
EmbryoScope Plus provides continuous 24/7 embryo monitoring, improved incubation stability, and reduced handling.
It also supports embryo evaluation using advanced tools such as AI-based scoring systems, helping embryologists make more informed embryo selection decisions.
AI tools in EmbryoScope Plus analyse embryo development patterns to support selection decisions. Systems such as iDAScore and KIDScore evaluate time-lapse data to identify embryos with higher implantation potential, while Guided Annotation standardises embryo development tracking for more consistent assessment.
Time-Lapse Embryo Imaging benefits IVF patients who have experienced previous failed cycles, produce multiple embryos requiring selection, or undergo pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT).
It is also useful for improving embryo selection accuracy in complex fertility cases.
Yes. Time-lapse imaging is safe because embryos remain inside a stable incubator throughout the entire process.
This minimises handling, maintains optimal culture conditions, and supports normal embryo development.
Time-lapse imaging does not guarantee pregnancy, but it improves embryo selection accuracy by providing detailed developmental information.
This helps embryologists make better-informed decisions, which may improve clinical outcomes in suitable cases.
Embryos are continuously monitored from fertilisation until the blastocyst stage, typically around 5 to 7 days, depending on individual embryo development.
Yes. At Sunfert, time-lapse embryo imaging using EmbryoScope Plus is included in most IVF treatment packages at no additional cost.
Patients may also request embryo development videos free of charges.
No. Time-Lapse Embryo Imaging is an advanced assisted reproductive technology that requires significant investment and is therefore not widely available across all fertility centres.
Meanwhile, EmbryoScope Plus is one of the most advanced time-lapse embryo imaging systems in the fertility industry, offering high-precision monitoring and enhanced embryo assessment capabilities.
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies (PGT-A) is an advanced genetic screening technique used during IVF to assess whether embryos have the correct number of chromosomes before transfer.
A healthy embryo typically contains 46 chromosomes (23 pairs). By identifying chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos, PGT-A helps improve implantation rates and supports a healthier pregnancy outcome.
The primary purpose of PGT-A is to select embryos with the correct chromosomal number, which can:
This allows fertility specialists to make more informed, evidence-based decisions during embryo transfer.
PGT-A is performed using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), a highly precise technology that analyses all 23 chromosome pairs simultaneously.
The process involves:
1. biopsy of a few cells from the embryo
2. DNA analysis using NGS
3. identification of chromosomal abnormalities
This detailed screening enables accurate embryo selection prior to transfer.
Chromosomal abnormalities occur when an embryo has extra, missing, or structurally abnormal chromosomes.
These abnormalities may lead to:
Screening helps identify embryos with normal chromosomal structure to improve pregnancy outcomes.
Common chromosomal conditions include:
PGT-A can detect these numerical abnormalities before embryo transfer, helping reduce associated risks.
PGT-A is commonly recommended for individuals or couples who:
At Sunfert, we aim to ensure that any additional procedures are only advised when there is clear clinical benefit, so patients are not undergoing or paying for steps that are not necessary for their fertility journey and treatment.
Yes. While PGT-A is especially beneficial for women of advanced maternal age, younger patients may also benefit by:
Clinical evidence suggests it can enhance decision-making across different age groups.
Embryo biopsy is considered safe when performed by experienced and well-trained gentic scientists following established laboratory protocols.
The procedure involves removing a small number of cells from the outer layer of the embryo, which does not develop into the fetus.
At Sunfert, strict quality control measures and laboratory protocols are followed by all clinical team members, including embryologists and genetic scientists, to ensure the highest standards of embryo safety.
PGT-A results are typically available within 2 to 3 weeks after the embryo biopsy.
This timeframe allows for detailed genetic analysis and accurate reporting to guide the next step in the IVF treatment plan.
No, PGT-A does not guarantee pregnancy. While it improves the selection of chromosomally normal embryos and increases the implantation rate, other factors such as uterine health, embryo quality, and overall medical conditions also influence the overall IVF success rates.
No. PGT-A specifically screens for chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidies) and does not detect single-gene disorders.
For inherited genetic disorder, required a different test called PGT-M (Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic disorders).
A mosaic embryo contains a mix of normal and abnormal cells. In some cases, mosaic embryos may still result in a healthy pregnancy.
However, transfer decisions require careful evaluation, counselling, and risk assessment by our fertility specialist and genetic scientists.
PGT-A can improve IVF success rates by selecting embryos with the highest implantation potential. Benefits may include:
However, outcomes vary depending on individual patient factors.
No, PGT-A is not required for every patient. Its use depends on factors such as age, medical history, previous IVF outcomes, and personal preferences.
A fertility specialist will advise whether PGT-A is appropriate based on individual circumstances.
If you are considering PGT-A to reduce the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down's Syndrome, you may discuss this option with your fertility specialist to receive personalised advice.
Combining IVF with PGT-A offers several advantages:
This approach supports a more personalised and evidence-based fertility journey.
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorder (PGT-M) is an advanced genetic test performed during IVF to detect specific inherited genetic disorders caused by mutations in a single gene.
It allows our fertility specialists to identify embryos that are unaffected before transfer, helping reduce the risk of passing genetic diseases to the baby.
Karyomapping is a sophisticated genetic testing technique that tracks the inheritance of DNA segments from both parents.
It helps identify whether an embryo has inherited a specific gene mutation.
This method improves the accuracy of detecting monogenic disorders and supports safer embryo selection.
PGT-M can screen for many inherited single-gene disorders, including:
PGT-M is recommended for individuals or couples with known genetic risks, including:
No. PGT-M is not required for every IVF patient. It is mainly advised for couples with a known risk of passing on specific genetic disorders. Our fertility specialist will recommend PGT-M based on medical history, genetic screening results, and individual circumstances.
If you are unsure whether you or your partner are carriers of certain genetic conditions, you may consider undergoing an Expanded Carrier Screening (ECS) blood test for further assessment.
Expanded Carrier Screening (ECS) is a blood test that checks whether an individual carries genes linked to inherited genetic disorders.
It is often the first step before PGT-M, helping identify risks even if there are no symptoms.
PGT-M significantly reduces the risk of passing specific inherited genetic disorders by selecting unaffected embryos.
However, it does not guarantee a completely disease-free baby, as it targets only specific known gene mutations.
Embryo biopsy is a highly specialised procedure performed at the blastocyst stage.
At Sunfert, this procedure are conducted by highly experienced and well-trained embryologists and genetic scientists using established protocols, hence we can assure our patients it is safe and would not affect the embryo development.
Yes, in some cases. By selecting embryos that are free from specific genetic disorders, PGT-M may lower the risk of miscarriage associated with inherited conditions, supporting a healthier pregnancy outcome.
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the genetic condition. Typically:
Your fertility specialist will provide a personalised timeline based on your case.
If you have a family history of inherited disease, it is advisable to:
Early assessment helps you make informed reproductive decisions.
PGT-M does not directly increase implantation rates, but it improves the likelihood of transferring embryos that are free from specific genetic disorders.
This contributes to better pregnancy outcomes and reduces the risk of inherited disease.
You should consult a fertility specialist if you:
At Sunfert, our fertility specialists can help determine whether PGT-M is suitable for your situation. Transparency and honesty are core to our values.
We ensure that any additional procedures are recommended only when there is clear clinical benefit, so patients do not undergo or incur costs for treatments that are not necessary for their fertility journey.
Laser-Assisted Hatching (LAH) is an advanced IVF laboratory technique that helps an embryo break through its outer shell, known as the zona pellucida, before implantation.
A precise medical laser is used to create a small opening, which may support the embryo in successfully attaching to the uterine lining.
For implantation to occur, an embryo must naturally “hatch” from its zona pellucida. In some cases, this outer layer may be thicker or harder, especially in older patients or frozen embryos.
Assisted hatching can help overcome this barrier and support implantation.
Laser-Assisted Hatching may improve implantation rates in specific groups of patients, particularly those with repeated IVF failure or poor embryo hatching potential. However, results vary, and it is not universally beneficial for all patients undergoing IVF.
No. Laser-Assisted Hatching is not required for all IVF patients.
It is only recommended when there is clinical evidence suggesting that the embryo may have difficulty hatching on its own.
Yes, Laser-Assisted Hatching is considered a safe and well-established assisted reproductive technology.
At Sunfert, it is performed by well-trained embryologists using advanced IVF laboratory technology, ensuring high precision while minimising risk to the embryo.
Yes. The procedure is done in our IVF laboratory shortly before the embryo transfer to ensure the embryo is ready for implantation.
No. While Laser-Assisted Hatching may support implantation in selected cases, no IVF technique can guarantee pregnancy. Success depends on multiple factors, including embryo quality, uterine health, and patient age.
At Sunfert, Laser-Assisted Hatching is included as part of IVF treatment when clinically indicated. Patients are not charged any additional fees for this service.
Yes, it is commonly considered in frozen embryo transfer cycles, as freezing and thawing may affect the zona pellucida, making hatching more difficult for some embryos.
The decision is based on multiple clinical factors, including:
At Sunfert, embryologists and fertility specialists work together to recommend LAH only when there is clear potential benefit.
Sperm DNA fragmentation testing is a specialised assessment that measures the level of DNA damage in sperm.
Healthy sperm DNA is essential for fertilisation, embryo development, and successful pregnancy.
High fragmentation levels may reduce fertility potential and affect IVF outcomes.
Sperm DNA fragmentation testing is often recommended by our fertility specialists and embryology team for men with:
It helps identify hidden causes of male infertility.
Yes. High sperm DNA fragmentation may reduce:
Identifying DNA damage allows fertility specialists to personalise treatment strategies and improve IVF outcomes.
Sperm DNA fragmentation test results show the percentage of sperm with damaged DNA.
A higher percentage indicates greater DNA fragmentation, which may be associated with reduced fertility potential.
Results are interpreted by fertility specialists to guide treatment decisions and improve chances of conception.
Yes. Sperm DNA quality may improve through lifestyle changes such as:
In some cases, medical or assisted reproductive treatments may also be recommended based on individual results.
SpermMobil is a specialised laboratory medium used to activate immotile or non-moving sperm.
It works by stimulating the energy mechanisms within viable sperm cells, allowing them to regain motility.
This helps our embryologists identify healthy sperm more accurately for use in IVF or ICSI, ultimately supporting improved fertilisation outcomes and embryo development.
SpermMobil is typically recommended for men with:
A fertility specialist will assess suitability based on individual semen analysis and clinical history
In Sunfert IVF laboratory, SpermMobil is applied directly to the semen sample to stimulate energy release within viable sperm cells.
This process can temporarily activate movement in otherwise immotile sperm, allowing our embryologists to distinguish living sperm from non-viable ones and select the most suitable sperm for fertilisation via IVF.
Yes, SpermMobil is safe as it is used strictly under controlled laboratory conditions. It does not damage sperm cells.
Instead, it helps identify and activate viable sperm within a sample, improving the selection process for fertilisation.
This supports better embryo quality and increases the likelihood of successful implantation during IVF or ICSI treatment.
Endometrial analysis refers to a group of advanced diagnostic tests that evaluate the uterine lining (endometrium) to optimise embryo implantation.
These include ERA (receptivity), EMMA (microbiome balance), and ALICE (infection detection).
Together, they help identify hidden factors such as timing mismatch, bacterial imbalance, or inflammation that may affect IVF success.
This allows fertility specialists to personalise treatment and improve implantation outcomes.
Endometrial analysis is typically recommended for individuals who have experienced:
It is also considered when clinicians suspect issues such as an altered implantation window, uterine microbiome imbalance, or chronic endometrial inflammation.
A fertility specialist will assess whether these tests are appropriate based on your medical history.
ERA (Endometrial Receptivity Analysis) identifies the personalised “window of implantation”, which is the optimal time when the uterus is most receptive to an embryo. In some patients, this window may be shifted earlier or later than expected.
By analysing gene expression in the endometrial tissue, ERA helps determine the best timing for embryo transfer.
This allows our fertility specialists to schedule transfer more precisely, potentially improving implantation rates in IVF cycles.
EMMA (Endometrial Microbiome Metagenomic Analysis) evaluates the balance of bacteria within the uterine lining, particularly the presence of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus.
A healthy microbiome supports embryo implantation and pregnancy development. If an imbalance is detected, targeted treatments such as probiotics or antibiotics may be recommended to restore uterine health and improve reproductive outcomes.
ALICE (Analysis of Infectious Chronic Endometritis) detects harmful bacteria associated with chronic endometritis, a condition involving persistent inflammation of the uterine lining.
This condition may reduce implantation success and increase miscarriage risk, often without noticeable symptoms.
By identifying the specific bacteria involved, ALICE enables targeted antibiotic treatment, helping to reduce inflammation and improve the chances of successful embryo implantation.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a regenerative therapy that uses a concentrated portion of a patient’s own blood, rich in platelets and growth factors. In fertility care, PRP is used to support ovarian and endometrial function by promoting tissue repair, improving blood flow, and encouraging cellular regeneration. This may help enhance reproductive health and optimise conditions for conception.
PRP for ovarian rejuvenation involves injecting platelet-rich plasma into the ovaries.
The growth factors help stimulate dormant follicles, support hormonal activity, and may improve egg quality.
It is generally considered for women with diminished ovarian reserve, early decline in ovarian function, or those seeking to improve fertility outcomes before IVF treatment.
Endometrial rejuvenation using PRP involves injecting platelet-rich plasma into the uterine lining to improve thickness and blood circulation.
This helps create a more receptive environment for embryo implantation. It is particularly beneficial for patients with a thin endometrium, recurrent implantation failure, or those preparing for IVF who require improved uterine receptivity.
Yes, PRP is safe as it is prepared using the patient’s own blood, which minimises the risk of allergic reactions or immune complications.
The procedure is minimally invasive and performed under clinical supervision.
EmbryoGlue is a specialised embryo transfer medium used in IVF to support implantation.
It contains a high concentration of hyaluronan, a naturally occurring substance in the female reproductive tract that helps embryos adhere to the uterine lining.
During treatment, the embryo is placed in EmbryoGlue before transfer, creating a supportive environment that may improve implantation success rates.
EmbryoGlue enhances implantation by increasing the interaction between the embryo and the uterine lining.
The hyaluronan-rich medium helps the embryo “stick” more effectively to the endometrium, improving adhesion during the early stages of implantation.
This creates a more natural and receptive environment that supports successful pregnancy outcomes in IVF cycles.
Yes, EmbryoGlue is safe and widely used in IVF laboratories. It contains hyaluronan that is laboratory-produced to replicate the natural substance found in the human body.
It is manufactured under strict medical-grade conditions and does not harm embryo development. At Sunfert, it is routinely used as part of our embryo transfer procedures.
Clinical studies, including findings reported in systematic reviews such as the Cochrane Review, suggest that EmbryoGlue may improve implantation and live birth rates.
For example, research has shown an increase in live birth rates from approximately 33.3% to 40.2% when EmbryoGlue is used during embryo transfer. While outcomes vary by individual, it is considered a supportive adjunct in improving implantation conditions.
EmbryoGlue is not medically required for every IVF cycle, but it is often used as an optional aid during embryo transfer.
Many fertility centres offer it selectively with additional charges, while at Sunfert it is included as part of standard care at no additional cost when there is clinical evidence that it may benefit the patient.
