What Is the Perfect Embryo?

What Is the Perfect Embryo? With embryologist Jessica from Explaining IVF!

What is the Perfect Embryo?

With embryologist Jessica from Explaining IVF!

If you're going through IVF, this is likely something you've heard or wondered.

There are a few factors that go into answering this question.

First, it’s important that the embryo is developing at a normal rate. This means that cell division and other important cellular activities are occurring normally.

On day 3, the perfect embryo consists of 8+ cells, no fragmentation (though some fragmentation is okay), and perfectly symmetrical cells.

By day 5, the embryo would be at the expanded blastocyst stage of development and consist of over 100 cells.

This embryo would consist of a compact, distinct inner cell mass (ICM), which ultimately develops into the baby. It would also consist of a uniform trophectoderm (TE) with no gaps, which ultimately develops into the placenta.

The embryo’s appearance is only one factor to consider, though. The perfect embryo is also genetically normal, meaning that it has the correct amount of DNA and is free of genetic mutations or misarrangements. These can be detected through preimplantation genetic testing (PGT).

It's important to note that a "perfect embryo" doesn't guarantee a pregnancy and to not get discouraged if your embryo is not "perfect." Most embryos that are transferred are not AA quality, and these embryos still result in healthy pregnancies. Like us, each embryo is different and, in my opinion, perfect in its own way.

To read more about what “perfect embryos” click here!

Did you learn something?