Embryo Glue Increases Success in IVF
The inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse is defined as “infertility.” If you are experiencing infertility, in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be the right treatment option for you. Since success in IVF does not depend on a single factor, various methods are used to increase the chances of pregnancy. One of these methods, known as “embryo glue”, enhances the embryo’s ability to attach to the uterus, increasing pregnancy rates and live birth rates.
What is embryo glue?
Embryo glue is a transfer medium that contains a high concentration of “hyaluronan.” Hyaluronan is a molecule naturally present in the uterine environment, and its levels increase during the process of embryo implantation.
Embryo transfer is the most critical and delicate stage of the IVF treatment process. In an IVF cycle, the highest-quality embryos are selected and transferred into the uterus. Successful implantation occurs through communication between the embryo and the uterine lining. The placement of the embryo is a crucial step just before implantation takes place.
The embryo glue method is a scientifically proven protocol used during embryo transfer to support the implantation of the embryo into the uterus.
It is reported to be particularly effective for women over the age of 35 and for those who have experienced previous unsuccessful IVF cycles. Over the past decade, embryo glue has become increasingly prominent, improving the chances of embryo implantation and overall treatment success during one of the most critical stages of IVF—the embryo transfer.
How is embryo glue used?
Embryo glue, which contains the protein “hyaluronan” naturally found in the uterus, is used by incubating selected high-quality embryos in this medium for a short period before transfer. The embryo is then transferred into the uterus together with this medium.
Is the success rate high?
Embryo glue significantly increases pregnancy rates. Studies have shown that it does not increase the risk of miscarriage or pregnancy-related complications. However, couples should not perceive it as a miracle solution.
Does embryo glue really work?
Embryo glue has been used for the past decade as one of the methods to improve IVF success rates. Initially, experts were skeptical about its effectiveness, but recent scientific studies have begun to change this perspective.
Today, embryo glue is widely used in various IVF centers. The number of scientific studies and supporting evidence continues to grow. While it may be more beneficial in certain treatment cycles than others, the overall data are promising.
The high concentration of hyaluronan makes embryo glue similar in consistency to uterine fluids, allowing better mixing and minimizing embryo displacement.
Additionally, hyaluronan binds to molecules on the surface of both the uterine lining and the embryo, acting as a bridge between them and facilitating embryo implantation.
In our center, “embryo glue” is used during the transfer stage in all IVF treatments.
Emb. Banu BOZ ENİSELER
IVF Laboratory Director, İrenbe IVF Center