Yes. Embryos are re-evaluated post-thaw, and your embryologist can guide transfer decisions based on updated observations.

All embryos that reach the blastocyst stage are typically frozen, regardless of grade. Some lower-grade blastocysts can still lead to pregnancies.

The embryo is selected the same way, but timing of the transfer is more dependent on your natural ovulation and lining development.

Mosaic embryos carry both normal and abnormal cells. Depending on the type and degree of mosaicism, some may still be considered for transfer under guidance from a genetic counselor.

Trust Fertlity recommend transferring a euploid embryo depending how poor is the grade, as genetics often outweigh appearance. However, if the embryo is graded as CC and or degenerating then transfer or freezing of this embryo is cancelled.

Genetically normal (euploid) embryos are prioritized for transfer, regardless of their morphological grade. Embryos with abnormal results are usually not transferred.

Yes. Many healthy pregnancies have come from lower-grade embryos. Grading is a tool, not a prediction.

Embryo grade is just one part of the picture. The IVF medical team may also consider genetic testing, uterine evaluation, and immune factors to guide future transfers.

Time-lapse incubators allow continuous imaging of embryos, providing better selection criteria without disturbing culture conditions.

The Inner Cell Mass (ICM) and Trophectoderm (TE) are the two main cell lineages in a blastocyst-stage embryo.
ICM develops into the fetus.
TE forms the placenta and extraembryonic tissues.

Usually, the embryos are graded for example as “5AB”, 5 is the expansion stage of blastocyst which is a hatching stage. The first letter which is “A” stands for the quality of the inner cell mass while the second letter which is “B” stands for the trophectoderm.
Embryos are graded at the blastocyst stage with the following:
6- Hatched Blastocyst
5- Hatching Blastocyst
4- Expanded Blastocyst
3- Full Blastocyst
2- Early Blastocyst
1- Late Cavitating stage

ICM Grade:
A-Best Quality (large ICM, many compacted cells, tightly packed)
B-Good Quality (smaller size, fewer loosely adherent cells, less compacted)
C-Poor Quality (very few cells visible, may be loose, difficult to distinguish from TE cells)

TE Grade:
A-Best Quality (many identical small cells forming a tightly knit continuous epithelium, appears evenly scalloped)
B-Good Quality (fewer small cells, non-continuous uneven layer with some gaps)
C- Poor Quality (very few cells of uneven size forming a loose epithelium, more gaps)

A blastocyst is a day 5–6 embryo that has reached a more advanced developmental stage. Transferring blastocysts may increase the chance of implantation compared to earlier-stage embryos.

Embryos are graded at the cleavage stage with the following:
Grade 1- best embryo
Grade 2- average
Grade 3- fair to poor
Grade 4- poorest quality

Embryo development may be delayed due to poor egg/sperm quality, genetic abnormalities, or lab conditions.

No. While higher-grade embryos may have a better chance of implanting, pregnancy success also depends on other factors like age, uterine health, and genetics.

A high-quality day 3 embryo has 6–8 evenly sized cells with minimal fragmentation. A high-quality blastocyst (day 5/6) has a well-defined inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE cells).

Embryos are graded based on:
Cell number and symmetry
Fragmentation percentage
Cell stage
Blastocyst expansion stage

The clinic will give you exact instructions. Timing is crucial because the egg retrieval is scheduled based on when you take this shot.

Yes, many people continue working, but you may feel more tired or bloated, especially towards the end of stimulation.

Common effects include bloating, mood swings, or mild discomfort. Rarely, a condition called OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome) can occur, so monitoring is essential.

Hormone injections like FSH and LH analogues are given daily, usually under the skin (subcutaneous). Your nurse will teach you how to self-administer them.

Yes. You’ll be monitored every few days with ultrasounds and blood tests to track follicle growth and adjust medication if needed.

Usually 8–12 days, depending on how your ovaries respond to the medications.

Ovarian stimulation involves hormone injections to help your ovaries produce multiple eggs instead of just one. More eggs usually mean a better chance of IVF success.

Possibly. If results are recent and reliable, they may be accepted. However, some clinics prefer in-house results or may require updates.

Your doctor will explain the implications and may recommend treatment, repeat testing, or alternative strategies before starting IVF.

Most test results come back within a week, but genetic or specialised tests may take up to 3–4 weeks.

These tests help tailor the treatment to your body, detect any health risks, and increase the chances of success by ensuring everything is optimised.

Common tests include hormone bloodwork (AMH, FSH, LH, etc.), pelvic ultrasound, semen analysis, infectious disease screening, and sometimes genetic testing.

Contact Trust Clinic to know the cost or IVF package. Ask the clinic ahead of time for transparency about consultation cost or if your insurance covers.

Absolutely. Bringing recent test results, past treatments, and relevant records helps avoid repeat tests and speeds up planning.

Usually 20-30 minutes. It may take longer if you have complex medical issues or if multiple tests are needed the same day.

Yes, it’s ideal for both partners to attend. Fertility involves both individuals, and tests or treatments may be needed for both.

Your first visit includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, lifestyle, and fertility journey. The doctor may order initial tests and explain the IVF process. It’s also a chance to ask questions and express your goals or concerns.

Yes, when performed by experienced embryologists, the risk of damaging the embryo is very low.

LAH is considered the safest and most controlled method because it is precise, fast, and reduces handling time compared to mechanical or chemical hatching.

Women over 37 years old.
Patients with thick zona pellucida (common in frozen embryos).
Those with repeated failed IVF cycles.
Couples using PGT, as the embryo's shell may be hardened from the biopsy process.

Yes, it can help embryos break through the zona pellucida for better implantation, particularly in frozen embryos or older patients.

LAH is a procedure where a laser is used to thin or create a small hole in the embryo’s outer shell (zona pellucida), helping it hatch and implant into the uterus.

Unfertilized eggs are observed for delayed fertilization, but if no signs of fertilization occur, they remain in culture to see if it will cleave the next day. If there is no cleavage, the unfertilized eggs are discarded or if there are other embryos that cleaved then unfertilized eggs are left in culture until the case is close.

Fertilization is assessed 16–18 hours after ICSI/IVF. A normally fertilized egg will show two pronuclei (2PN), indicating successful sperm and egg fusion.

Immature eggs are being checked later in the afternoon or the next day if they become mature and are suitable for ICSI. However, eggs which are considered as MI, GV, atretic eggs, parthenogenic and abnormal eggs are not being injected. Usually, it is not discarded until the case is closed but not utilized.

Only the mature egg is suitable for injection or ICSI and culture to next day to see for fertilization.

ICSI is used for:
Low sperm count or motility
High DNA fragmentation
Previous IVF failure
Surgically retrieved sperm

Fertilization occurs either by:
Conventional IVF: Eggs and sperm are mixed in a petri dish.
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A single sperm is injected directly into each mature egg.

Usually, information regarding the number of eggs and maturity is discussed to the patient before discharge (Day 0), while the fertilization results are determined the next day and patients are informed at Day 1 of the procedure (fertilization day).

The embryologists are the ones processing your eggs in the lab.

The number varies by individual but generally:
Mild stimulation: 5–10 eggs
Conventional IVF: 10–15 eggs
High responders: 20+ eggs

In some cases, In Vitro Maturation (IVM) techniques can help MI eggs mature, but success rates are lower than naturally matured eggs.

Egg quality is assessed based on cytoplasmic appearance, presence of granularity, vacuoles, and zona pellucida thickness. Poor-quality eggs may have fragmentation, dark cytoplasm, or abnormal polar bodies.

Eggs are classified as:

• GV (Germinal Vesicle) – Immature, not used for fertilization.
• MI (Metaphase I) – Partially mature, may mature in culture.
• MII (Metaphase II) – Fully mature and ready for fertilization.

Eggs are assessed for maturity under a microscope. Only mature (MII) eggs are used for fertilization via IVF or ICSI.

Most insurance plans in the UAE do not cover PGT-A as it is considered an optional add-on to IVF. However, some employer-sponsored plans may offer partial coverage. It’s best to check with your insurance provider.

PGT-A results typically take 7-14 days, depending on the lab’s processing time. Some clinics may send samples abroad for testing, which could extend the wait time.

Yes, PGT-A can be performed on embryos that were previously frozen. The embryos will need to be thawed, biopsied, and then refrozen until transfer.

No, NGS 5 only screens for the most common chromosomal abnormalities. It does not check for smaller chromosomal deletions, duplications, or less common aneuploidies.

NGS 5 is a simplified and more affordable test that screens for the most critical chromosomal abnormalities. It may be used when:
Budget is a concern, and testing all chromosomes is not necessary.
The patient is younger (<35 years) and has a lower risk of chromosomal errors.
A faster turnaround time is needed.

NGS 5-chromosome screening focuses on the five most commonly affected chromosomes that are linked to implantation failure and miscarriage. These are typically:
Chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X, and Y, which are involved in conditions like:
Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
Sex chromosome abnormalities (Turner/Klinefelter syndrome)

Yes, it can reveal XX (female) or XY (male) chromosomes.

Yes, NGS provides high accuracy and sensitivity, reducing the chances of false positives or negatives compared to older methods like FISH or aCGH.

Screening all chromosomes helps:
Detect major genetic abnormalities that cause implantation failure and miscarriage.
Identify sex chromosome abnormalities (e.g., Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome).
Improve embryo selection for a higher chance of a successful pregnancy.

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) 24-chromosome screening analyzes all 24 chromosomes (22 autosomes + X and Y sex chromosomes) to detect aneuploidies, deletions, and duplications.

PGT-A results typically fall into these categories:
Euploid (Normal): The embryo has the correct number of 46 chromosomes and is ideal for transfer.
Aneuploid (Abnormal): The embryo has too many or too few chromosomes and is unlikely to result in a healthy pregnancy.
Mosaic: The embryo has a mix of normal and abnormal cells. Some mosaics can still implant and result in a healthy baby.

When performed correctly, the risk is minimal, but cleavage-stage biopsy may reduce implantation potential more than blastocyst-stage biopsy.

Blastocyst-stage biopsy (Day 5/6) is preferred because it provides more accurate results and has a lower impact on embryo development.

Day 3 Biopsy:
1–2 cells are taken from an 8-cell embryo.
Less commonly used now due to potential impact on embryo development.

Day 5/6 Biopsy:
5–10 cells are taken from the trophectoderm (outer layer).
More reliable and preferred because it does not harm the inner cell mass (which becomes the baby).

An embryo biopsy involves removing a small number of cells for genetic testing. It can be done at the cleavage stage (Day 3) or blastocyst stage (Day 5/6).

In the UAE, gender selection is only permitted for medical reasons, such as preventing sex-linked genetic disorders. Elective gender selection for non-medical reasons is not allowed under UAE regulations.

Yes, PGT-A reveals the embryo’s sex, but selecting based on gender is only allowed in some countries for medical reasons.

Yes, when performed by skilled embryologists, the risk of harm to the embryo is minimal. However, not all embryos survive the biopsy and freezing process.

PGT-A helps improve implantation rates and lowers miscarriage risks by selecting embryos with normal chromosomal makeup. However, it does not guarantee pregnancy and should be considered as part of an overall IVF strategy.

Yes, PGT helps select the healthiest embryo, increasing the chances of implantation and reducing miscarriage rates. However, it does not guarantee pregnancy.

Yes, PGT-A is legal and available in the UAE but is regulated by the Department of Health, Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Patients must undergo genetic counseling, and in some cases, specific approvals may be required.

PGT-A may be beneficial for:
Women over 35 years who have a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage.
Those who have experienced multiple failed IVF cycles.
Patients with severe male factor infertility (high sperm DNA fragmentation or abnormal karyotypes).
Couples undergoing IVF with donor eggs or sperm.
Those with a history of chromosomal abnormalities in previous pregnancies.

PGT-A (Aneuploidy Screening): Checks for abnormal chromosome numbers (e.g., Down syndrome, Turner syndrome).
PGT-M (Monogenic/Single-Gene Disorders): Tests for inherited genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia.
PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangements): Detects chromosomal translocations or rearrangements that could cause miscarriage.

Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) is a technique used in IVF to analyze embryos for genetic abnormalities before implantation. This helps improve the chances of selecting a healthy embryo for transfer.

Costs vary based on the initial freezing process and annual storage fees. Contact the clinic for detailed pricing information.

Yes! If you have a low sperm count or poor motility, multiple samples may be collected and frozen over time to increase the chances of success in future treatments.

A small percentage of sperm may not survive the freezing and thawing process. However, only the strongest sperm are selected for freezing, and frozen sperm can still achieve successful pregnancies through assisted reproductive techniques.

Sperm freezing is recommended for:
Medical reasons – Before cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery) that may affect fertility.
Surgical procedures – If undergoing a vasectomy but wanting the option of future fertility.
Age-related fertility planning – Preserving sperm at a younger age for future use.
Occupational risks – For individuals exposed to chemicals, radiation, or high-risk professions.
Low sperm count or quality – To secure a backup sample for future fertility treatments.
Before fertility treatments – In case fresh sperm is unavailable on the day of treatment (e.g., for IUI or IVF).

Sperm freezing (cryopreservation) is the process of collecting, processing, and storing sperm at ultra-low temperatures (-196°C) in liquid nitrogen. This preserves sperm for future use in fertility treatments such as IUI, IVF, or ICSI.

Dry orgasm (little or no semen during ejaculation).
Cloudy urine after ejaculation (due to sperm mixing with urine).
Possible male infertility, as sperm is not reaching the female reproductive tract.

Nerve damage from diabetes, spinal cord injuries, or surgeries (e.g., prostate or bladder surgery).
Medications like alpha-blockers (used for high blood pressure or prostate conditions).
Structural issues affecting the bladder neck or urethra.

Retrograde ejaculation occurs when semen flows backward into the bladder instead of exiting through the urethra during ejaculation.
This results in little to no semen being released externally.

If a non-toxic collection condom is used, sperm quality should remain intact.
However, some sperm may be lost in the condom, and motility might be slightly lower compared to direct collection.

The semen is collected in the lab-approved condom during intercourse. The condom must be carefully removed, tied at the top to prevent leakage, and transferred to the sterile collection container provided by the lab.
The sample should be delivered immediately to maintain optimal sperm viability.

Unfortunately, only the semen inside the sterile container can be tested. Spilled semen on any surface (even clean ones) cannot be used.

It depends on the Andrology lab's decision. A second sample right away may have a lower sperm count due to the short recovery time. Andrology lab may allow back-to-back collections or may ask you to return the next day.

In most cases, the lab will ask for a repeat collection on the same day or reschedule for another time.
If a second sample is needed, follow the same abstinence period recommended before the first collection.

Yes, especially if the first portion of the ejaculate is lost, as it contains the highest sperm concentration.
If only a small amount is spilled, results may still be usable, but the lab needs to know.

Stay calm and inform the lab immediately. Do not attempt to transfer spilled semen back into the collection container, as this can introduce contamination.

Yes, stress can impact sperm quality and ejaculation ability.
If feeling anxious, discuss options with the clinic beforehand.

No, unless using a fertility-friendly lubricant provided by the clinic.
Most lubricants, including saliva, can harm sperm.

The first portion of the ejaculate contains the highest sperm concentration.
If any part is missed, inform the laboratory, as this may impact results.

Keep the sample at body temperature (e.g. place the specimen cup inside the specimen bag and keep it in your pocket). Do not expose it to extreme heat or cold. Deliver it to the lab within 30-60 minutes of collection.

The clinic allows special non-toxic collection condoms for use during intercourse. In case of severe difficulty, surgical sperm retrieval may be an option.

Collection rooms in clinics are designed for privacy and comfort.
Home collection (if permitted) allows more discretion, but timely delivery is essential.

Yes, frozen sperm can be thawed and used for IVF or ICSI. The survival rate of thawed sperm is usually 50–70%, but lab techniques help optimize selection.

If a semen analysis shows azoospermia (absence of sperm), a surgical sperm retrieval method like TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) may be performed to obtain sperm directly from the testes.

Sperm DNA fragmentation refers to breaks or damage in sperm DNA, which can affect embryo quality and increase miscarriage risk.

1. Efficiency-this sperm separation system is efficient with rapid processing time that enhances the laboratory productivity.
2. Consistent- it is consistent as automated operation reduces variability and potential human error.
3. Sperm Quality- it isolates sperm with high vitality and low DNA fragmentation, which are crucial factors for successful fertilization and embryo development.

Yes, Trust Fertility Andrology Lab uses a special sperm separation system device with less processing time, faster than any traditional methods that can take up an hour, and selects sperm with lower levels of DNA fragmentation, potentially leading to improved ART outcomes.

Repeat semen analysis to confirm results.
Hormonal and genetic testing if necessary.
Sperm retrieval techniques (PESA, TESA, TESE) if no sperm are found in the ejaculate.
ICSI with IVF may be used to fertilize an egg with a single healthy sperm if concentration is very low.

Yes, in some cases. If caused by lifestyle factors, infections, or hormone imbalances, treatment can improve sperm count. Medications, surgery (e.g., varicocele repair), or assisted reproductive techniques may be recommended for more severe cases.

Consult a fertility specialist or urologist to identify underlying causes.
Consider lifestyle changes:

• Eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
• Exercise regularly but avoid excessive heat (e.g., hot tubs, saunas).
• Reduce alcohol, smoking, and drug use.
• Manage stress and get enough sleep.

If a medical condition is suspected, further tests (hormonal tests, genetic screening, scrotal ultrasound) may be needed.

Yes. Sperm production is influenced by lifestyle, health conditions, and environmental factors.
A repeat semen analysis after 2–3 months is recommended to confirm findings.

Yes. A lower sperm count can reduce the chances of natural conception, but pregnancy is still possible depending on sperm motility and morphology.
In severe cases, assisted reproductive techniques (ART) like IUI, IVF, or ICSI may be needed.

• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low testosterone, pituitary disorders).
• Genetic conditions (e.g., Klinefelter syndrome, Y chromosome microdeletions).
• Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum affecting sperm production).
• Infections or STIs that impact sperm production or transport.
• Lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, drug use, obesity, stress, overheating of testicles).
• Medical treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, certain medications).
• Obstructions in the reproductive tract preventing sperm from being released.

Low sperm concentration (oligospermia) means the sperm count is below the normal reference range of ≥15 million sperm per milliliter of semen.
If no sperm are found in the sample, it is called azoospermia.

A semen analysis is performed to evaluate:

• Sperm concentration (count)
• Motility (movement ability)
• Morphology (shape and structure)
• Vitality (percentage of live sperm)

Semen is usually collected via masturbation in a sterile container at the clinic. In cases of severe male infertility, sperm may be retrieved surgically via TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) or PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration).