The clinical need for a method of identification of embryos destined to become a blastocyst in assisted reproductive technology cycles

Abstract

Purpose To provide a rationale for continuation of efforts to improve the outcome of Assisted Reproductive Technology outcomes, thereby increasing the likelihood of the live birth of healthy neonates. Methods Description of rationale and a framework leading to improvement in Assisted Reproductive Technology outcomes. Results The opportunity for improvement in the success rate for Assisted Reproductive Technology outcome is predicated on selection of the highest quality embryo(s) for transfer. However, such approaches must be balanced by a limit to the number of embryos transferred so as to reduce the risk for multiple births and particularly higher order multiple gestations. Blastocyst transfer offers one such successful approach, but is confounded by suggestions of an increased risk of both pregnancy complications and epigenetic disorders. Conclusion There is a need for development of approaches which, individually or in combination, may assist in the early detection of embryos destined to develop into blastocysts. © 2012 The Author(s).