In the previous chapter we described the embryo classification process made the Laboratory when we carry out an assisted fertilization treatment (IVF or ICSI).
This classification is made on the 3rd day of the embryo development.
If the embryo remains longer in the culture medium, its cells will continue to divide and then reach the fourth day of development, forming a morula. This latin name comes from its appearance at this stage, similar to that of a blackberry, given the high number of cells that make it up at this point and the tightness of the established connections between them.
At this time the embryo begins the compaction process, making it quite difficult for us to make out the edges of the cells. When the compaction process is complete, it is nearly impossible to distinguish each of the cells, since they have become a single “mass”.
The last stage that embryos in culture reach in the laboratory is the blastocyst, or “blasto” stage, which corresponds to the fifth or sixth day of development.
First, we can identify the cells that make up the trophoectoderm, that is, the outermost part of the circumference, that will result in the placenta if the pregnancy goes ahead.
Another group of cells have “bunched up”, forming an internal cell mass. That mass will later give rise to the embryo.
This last step is of utmost importance in the embryo development and for the treatment of assisted reproduction (IVF), since the embryo needs to reach this blastocyst stage in order for it to implant in the wall of the maternal uterus. That is, the embryo “attachs” into the uterus to give rise to a pregnancy.
The Manzanera Medical Center has a highly qualified team with extensive experience to help you achieve a successful pregnancy. Remember that you can send us an email to info@centromedicomanzanera.com or fill out the following contact form https://www.centromedicomanzanera.com/en/formulario_en/
Have a nice day!
María Pombar Gómez
Embryologist
IMAGE: Modified from Blueringmedia for Vectorstock
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