The work of an embryologist
Due to their specialization, embryologists are closely involved in the course of IVF and intrauterine insemination (IUI). They perform complex procedures, and their work requires extraordinary patience, precision, and manual dexterity. The scope of their responsibilities is very broad and includes:
- Gamete preparation – the embryologist is responsible for preparing gametes for in vitro fertilization. The material obtained during ovarian puncture reaches the embryology laboratory, where egg cells are isolated, cleaned, and evaluated for maturity and structure. The embryologist also prepares semen for insemination and selects sperm for IVF.
- In vitro fertilization – selected egg cells and sperm are combined in laboratory conditions specifically by the embryologist. Specialized equipment is used for this purpose, including microscopes, micromanipulators with thin needles, lasers, as well as appropriate culture dishes and media. Embryologists use various fertilization methods, including classic IVF, ICSI, IMSI, and PICSI.
- Embryo culture – embryologists place fertilized egg cells in special incubators and regularly monitor their development over the following days, ensuring the appropriate culture media and conditions, as well as assessing the embryos. They closely monitor how changes occur and detect any potential abnormalities.
- Preparing embryos for transfer – after careful analysis, the embryologist, together with the doctor, decides on the optimal timing for transfer (usually performed on day 3 or day 5 of culture) and selects the embryo with the best prognosis for the procedure.
- Implementation of additional procedures supporting fertilization – the embryologist may also use additional techniques designed to support embryo implantation, including assisted hatching and EmbryoGlue.
- Embryo biopsy – experienced embryologists also perform embryo biopsies, collecting material for preimplantation genetic testing (PGD and PGS).
- Freezing of embryos and gametes – embryologists are also involved in freezing and thawing embryos, egg cells, and semen, which can be used for fertilization in the future.
- Reproductive cell bank – embryos and gametes stored in fertility clinics also remain under the strict supervision of embryologists, who ensure their safety, control the equipment, and monitor the conditions in which they are kept.
- Laboratory and equipment operation – embryologists also constantly monitor the conditions within the laboratory, verifying temperature levels, humidity, as well as parameters of laboratory equipment.
Consultation between an embryologist and the patient
Embryologists spend their time mainly in the laboratory, but they often speak with patients who wish to obtain information regarding the course of culture and the potential of their embryos. Just like the entire team at the Bocian Clinic, they strive toward the most important goal – achieving pregnancy and the birth of a child.
