Complementary Techniques in In Vitro Fertilization without evidence of effectiveness

“Hatching or Assisted Hatching

This practice consists of making a hole in the membrane surrounding the embryo in order to facilitate its implantation in the uterus. The disadvantage is that it is an invasive technique that can damage the embryo. At present, its efficacy has not been proven; further studies are needed to see if it increases the rate of the child born and if it affects the health of the child.

Immunological tests and treatments

These tests look for possible alterations in the woman’s immune system that may be the cause of repeated miscarriages and implantation failures. The treatments for this theoretical abnormal response to embryos consist of the administration of steroids, immunoglobulins, TNF blocking agents, intralipid infusions… This causes a decrease in natural immunity, which can lead to alterations such as hypertension, type II diabetes, prematurity, infections, malaise, pain, fever, thrombosis… On the other hand, there is no proven scientific evidence that the immune system rejects embryos.

IMSI

IMSI is a method of selecting spermatozoa according to their morphology prior to performing ICSI, applying a microscope magnification much higher than that normally used. It is a non-invasive method that does not entail any extra risk, except that the eggs are longer outside the incubator since the location of spermatozoa without morphological abnormalities can take longer. There is no scientific evidence to support the use of IMSI instead of ICSI in infertile males.

PICSI

It consists of selecting spermatozoa based on their ability to bind hyaluronic acid for having better quality. It is a non-invasive method that carries no extra risk, but there is no evidence to suggest any benefit to using the PICSI technique.