Understanding what embryo glue is and when it might help can provide clarity at a time when there’s already a lot to consider emotionally, physically, and financially.
What Is Embryo Glue?
Despite its name, embryo glue is not an actual adhesive. It is a special culture medium enriched with a substance called hyaluronic acid (also called hyaluronan), along with other proteins and nutrients. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the human body, including in cervical mucus, uterine lining, and follicular fluid.The purpose of embryo glue is to create a more natural and receptive environment during embryo transfer, the critical point where the embryo is placed in the uterus. The medium supports the embryo and may help it “stick” or interact better with the endometrial lining, potentially increasing the chances of implantation.
Embryo glue is typically used in the lab during the final rinse of the embryo before transfer.
How Does It Work?
Here’s how embryo glue supports implantation:- Hyaluronic acid increases the viscosity of the solution, helping the embryo stay closer to the uterine wall.
- It promotes better cell-to-cell adhesion, mimicking the natural environment where embryos implant.
- It may enhance communication between the embryo and endometrial cells, a vital process in early implantation.
- It provides additional nutrients and energy sources during the crucial moments of transfer.
Who Might Benefit from Embryo Glue?
While embryo glue is not a mandatory part of IVF, your fertility specialist might recommend it in specific cases:- Repeated implantation failure in previous IVF attempts
- Thin endometrial lining
- Poor synchronisation between the embryo and the endometrium, where the timing of embryo readiness does not match the uterus’s ability to support implantation
- Advanced maternal age, where egg or embryo quality may be lower
- Use of frozen embryos, which may benefit from additional support at transfer
What Does the Research Say?
Scientific studies offer mixed results. Some clinical trials and meta-analyses suggest that embryo glue may increase implantation and clinical pregnancy rates, especially for patients with prior failed IVF cycles. Others find no statistically significant improvement in live birth rates.A meta-analysis published in Reproductive Biomedicine Online found a modest increase in clinical pregnancy rates with hyaluronic acid-enriched media, but cautioned that more studies are needed to assess long-term outcomes.
In India, a few private fertility centres have reported better implantation rates when using embryo glue in selected patients. However, large-scale, peer-reviewed Indian data remains limited. The Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) currently advises that while embryo glue may be helpful, it should not be promoted as a guaranteed success enhancer.
Is It Safe to Use Embryo Glue in IVF?
Yes. Embryo glue has been deemed safe for use in IVF. The hyaluronic acid used is highly purified and biocompatible, meaning it’s naturally compatible with the human body and doesn’t trigger immune reactions. It also doesn’t alter the genetic material of the embryo or interfere with its natural development. That said, it’s important to:- Use it only under guidance from your fertility specialist
- Be aware that it’s an add-on service, often with additional costs (ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 in Indian clinics)
Common Misconceptions About Embryo Glue
With a name like “embryo glue,” it’s easy to misunderstand what this medium really does. Here are some of the most common myths and the reality behind them.- “It guarantees pregnancy.”While it may support implantation, it does not guarantee a successful pregnancy. Other factors like embryo quality, uterine health, and hormone levels still play a major role.
- “It’s an actual adhesive.”There’s no glue involved. The name is metaphorical, referring to how hyaluronic acid helps improve cell adhesion.
- “It’s needed in every IVF case.”Many people conceive successfully through IVF without embryo glue. It’s more of a support tool in certain conditions.
Ultimately, the decision should come after a detailed conversation with your fertility team. Together, you can weigh your unique fertility history, embryo quality, and clinical recommendations to decide if embryo glue is worth adding to your treatment plan.
FAQs on What is Embryo Glue in IVF and Does It Improve Your Chances?
- Does embryo glue increase IVF success rates?
It may improve implantation in some patients, particularly those with past IVF failures, but results vary, and success depends on many factors. - Should I opt for embryo glue if it’s my first IVF cycle?
Not necessarily. It’s often reserved for those with previous implantation failures or other risk factors. Discuss with your doctor. - Will I feel any difference if embryo glue is used?
No. The transfer process feels the same, whether embryo glue is used or not.
