Navigating the complex world of fertility treatments feels like a never-ending wave of emotion. If you've been on this journey, or currently on one, you've likely come across various methods and products designed to boost your chances of success.
One such product is EmbryoGlue®. But how does it help with implantation?
How does it work?
Think about trying to stick a tiny seed to the inside of a water balloon. Tricky, right? That's kind of what embryo implantation is like. The embryo has to attach itself securely to the lining of your uterus for a pregnancy to start.
The idea behind EmbryoGlue is to mimic what's naturally happening in the uterus. When embryos are grown in the lab, they miss out on some of the helpful stuff they’d normally get in the body. EmbryoGlue is meant to fill in that gap.
Remember, EmbryoGlue doesn't actually glue the embryo to the uterus. It's more about creating the right environment for implantation to happen naturally.
But does it really help?
Okay, the million-dollar question: Does it work? Research suggests that EmbryoGlue increases implantation and clinical pregnancy rates in some cases. But keep in mind that everyone's fertility journey is different, and what works for one person might not work for another.
Some fertility clinics use EmbryoGlue for everyone, while others might suggest it for specific situations, like if you've had a few unsuccessful IVF cycles. Talking to your healthcare provider is the best way to figure out what's right for you. Want to find a fertility clinic that uses EmbryoGlue? You can find them on this handy map.
Is EmbryoGlue safe?
One of the good things about EmbryoGlue is that it is safe. The main ingredient, hyaluronic acid, is already in our bodies, so it's not introducing anything foreign or artificial into the process.
EmbryoGlue has not been reported to have harmful side effects and has been shown to reduce the risk of miscarriage. This makes it a tempting option for people doing IVF, as it offers benefits without significant risks.
Who should consider using it?
While EmbryoGlue could help anyone going through IVF, some people might see more of a difference, including:
- People who've had multiple failed IVF cycles
- Those with unexplained infertility
- Couples using frozen embryos
- Women of "advanced maternal age"
What to expect if you use EmbryoGlue
If you decide to try it, you won't notice any difference in your IVF procedure. The embryos are just placed in the solution before the transfer, but the transfer itself is the same. You won't feel any different, and there aren't any extra steps or medications.
After the transfer, the waiting game begins — just like with any IVF cycle. Whether you used EmbryoGlue or not, follow your clinic's instructions for post-transfer care.
The emotions of fertility treatments
It's totally normal to feel a mix of hope and worry when you're thinking about any new fertility treatment. Wanting a successful pregnancy can be all-consuming, and it's easy to get your hopes up about anything that might help. It's okay to feel optimistic about EmbryoGlue, but it's also important to keep your expectations in check.
Remember, your fertility does not define your worth, and it's essential to take care of yourself during fertility treatment. This could mean setting boundaries with well-meaning but overly curious friends and family, finding a support group of others going through similar experiences, or treating yourself to things you enjoy and that help you relax.
We offer a variety of resources and a compassionate Rescripted community support network for you to lean on whenever you need.
Looking ahead
If you want to know if EmbryoGlue is right for you, have an open and honest conversation with your fertility specialist. They can give you personalized advice based on your situation and medical history.
Remember, no matter where your fertility journey takes you, you're not alone. Lots of people are on similar paths, and there's a whole community ready to support you. Be kind to yourself along the way.
Blair Sharp is a freelance writer who lives in Minnesota with her husband and son. Her words have been published in various publications, including Parents, SheKnows, The Bump, and Insider. You can find her watching reality TV and sharing too many reels with her friends when she's not writing. To connect with Blair, find her on LinkedIn and Instagram, or head to her website www.blairsharp.com.