Embryologists are the unsung heroes behind the scenes of fertility treatments, playing a critical role in ensuring the success of procedures like egg freezing and IVF. Emanuela Lazzaroni-Tealdi, a Senior Embryologist with over a decade of experience, provides a glimpse into her daily routine and highlights the meticulous work involved in helping patients achieve their reproductive goals.
What Does a Typical Day Look Like for a Senior Embryologist?
A Senior Embryologist’s day starts early, often between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., with oocyte retrieval procedures. Timing is crucial, as each egg must be handled with precision and care to ensure its viability.
"The morning is usually filled with retrieving oocytes. After collection, we incubate the eggs for 2-3 hours to stabilize them before starting the denudation process, where we clean the eggs of surrounding cells."
The next step involves carefully assessing each egg under a high-magnification microscope to determine its maturity. Mature eggs are then prepared for cryopreservation using a process called vitrification.Vitrification is a fast-freezing technique that prevents ice crystals from forming and damaging the eggs. It’s a quick but detailed process, requiring the eggs to be frozen in small batches to ensure quality.
Once the eggs are vitrified, they are stored in liquid nitrogen tanks, where the temperature is maintained at -196°C. The day often ends with detailed documentation of each step taken, ensuring a record of accuracy and traceability.
What Role Do Embryologists Play in Fertility Treatments?
Embryologists are at the heart of fertility labs, bridging science and patient care. Their work directly impacts the success of treatments like egg freezing and IVF.
"The lab’s efficiency and the embryologist's expertise are key factors in the success of fertility treatments. From preparing eggs for freezing to creating embryos for transfer, every step requires precision and knowledge."
In egg freezing, embryologists ensure that only high-quality, mature eggs are frozen, maximizing the chances of a successful pregnancy in the future. In IVF, they handle the delicate process of fertilizing eggs, monitoring embryo development, and selecting the best ones for transfer. The role goes beyond technical expertise, as embryologists also provide patients with reassurance and confidence during their fertility journeys.
"Patients often don’t realize how much goes on behind the scenes. Every egg, every embryo represents hope for a family, and that’s a responsibility we take very seriously."
Conclusion
A Senior Embryologist’s day is a blend of science, precision, and dedication. From the moment eggs are retrieved to their successful cryopreservation or fertilization, embryologists like Emanuela ensure the highest standards of care in fertility labs.
Their expertise not only advances the science of reproduction but also provides countless individuals and couples with the opportunity to realize their dreams of parenthood.