Fertility medicine moves quickly, and new techniques appear regularly. Here is a plain-language tour of the main ones, and how to think about whether any of them apply to you.
Time lapse embryo imaging
Continuous monitoring of embryo development without removing embryos from their optimal environment. The claimed benefits are better embryo selection through detailed development tracking, less handling, and better timing of the transfer.
Preimplantation genetic testing
Genetic screening of embryos before transfer. It comes in three main forms:
- PGT-A, which tests for chromosomal abnormalities
- PGT-M, which screens for specific inherited disorders
- PGT-SR, which identifies structural chromosomal rearrangements
Where it is appropriate, it is associated with lower miscarriage rates, reduced risk of passing on a genetic disorder, and the confidence to transfer a single embryo rather than two. It is not automatically right for everyone, and it adds cost, so ask specifically why it is being recommended in your case.
Artificial intelligence in embryo selection
AI systems are being developed to analyse embryo images and predict which are most likely to succeed. The applications include automated grading, pattern recognition and prediction of implantation. This is a genuinely promising area and also an area where marketing runs ahead of evidence, so treat bold claims carefully.
Endometrial receptivity testing
A test that analyses gene expression in the lining of the uterus to identify the window when it is most receptive to an embryo. It is mainly discussed for people who have had repeated implantation failure rather than as a routine step.
Better freezing: vitrification
Ultra-rapid freezing that prevents ice crystals forming, with much higher survival rates than older methods. It is what makes frozen embryo transfers and egg banking as viable as they now are.
Less invasive testing
Newer approaches test the spent culture medium around an embryo rather than taking a biopsy, which lowers the risk to the embryo. The accuracy compared with traditional biopsy is still being established.
Ovarian reserve testing
- AMH testing, which gives an indication of ovarian reserve
- Antral follicle count, an ultrasound assessment
- Genetic testing, where an inherited condition is suspected
Male factor techniques
- IMSI, sperm selection at high magnification
- PICSI, a physiological approach to sperm selection
- Sperm DNA fragmentation testing, which looks at DNA quality rather than count alone
Further off
In vitro gametogenesis, creating eggs and sperm from stem cells, is at the research stage. So is gene editing for preventing inherited disease, which is heavily regulated. Treat anything offered commercially in these areas with deep suspicion.
The questions that actually matter
When any of this is put in front of you, ask:
- Which of these would change the plan in my specific situation?
- What does it cost, and what is the evidence it improves my odds?
- What are the additional risks?
- What happens if I decline it?
The best technology is the one that is right for your situation, not the newest one on the brochure. As an independent consultancy we help you weigh these options against what the clinic recommends, which is a different job from selling them to you.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Your own situation needs a proper assessment by a qualified clinician, which is something we arrange at our partner clinics in Accra.
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We are not a clinic, so our advice is not tied to any clinic's treatment menu.
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