And behind every successful IVF cycle, there is a group of embryologists working their magic in the background – scientists, artists and even therapists all rolled into one. We do not necessarily see the patients in person, but we think of you. Day by day, we manipulate your future expectations under a microscope. That is why today, we would like to draw the curtain and tell our readers what we would like every patient to know about the process from the cell to the baby.
We care more than you think
We can see you, but you may never see us. We recognise you by names, stories and even handwriting on consent forms. We have embryo growth milestones, and we celebrate them like guardians. We cheer on every fertilised egg and complain when it fails to develop. We are interested in your happiness. Your broken heart remains with us also.
We do not just grow embryos- we carry hope. And regardless of how many embryos we have encountered, your case is not another case to us.
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Embryo development is a marathon, not a sprint
There is a temptation to want to have updates daily or fast results, but trust the process. Embryos grow according to their tempo. Some may take a long time to grow, and others may take a short time, and both may lead to healthy pregnancies. Day 3 vs Day 5 transfers, grading and freezing–all that is a matter of exquisite balance of science, timing and personal biology.
Things that we observe under the microscope are only a small portion of the story, though. A baby that is beautiful and healthy can come out of an average-looking embryo. We never only focus on the grades.
The lab is a world of precision and protection
Our lab is not merely a room; it is a shrine. Conditions of air quality, humidity and temperature are all regulated. We do our tasks in darkness and low light to resemble the natural atmosphere of the womb.
Any minuscule environmental disturbance may affect the development of the embryo; thus, we take care of every movement.
It would be melodramatic to say that your embryos are held in the most secure environment possible–more securely than gold.
We talk to your embryos (and sometimes name them)
Yes, really. We say encouraging things to you as we watch your embryos through the microscope, many of us whisper. Others even nickname them. It also assists us in being emotional about its result. You are letting us into something very intimate, and we respect that with tenderness, empathy and perhaps a bit of baby talk.
Not every embryo is destined to be a baby—and that’s okay
This is among the most challenging things to explain. Embryos are complicated and not every embryo will survive, grow or lead to a live birth, no matter how reasonable our efforts are. Not because you did anything wrong.
The fact is that nature still has a part to play, and sometimes the result is just beyond the control of everyone. Mourn, but do not despair.
Ask questions—we welcome them
It is a world of embryology, and embryology terminology can be daunting: ICSI, blastocyst, trophectoderm grading, vitrification… However, that should not frighten you. We enjoy it when patients enquire about their embryos. You do not have to be an expert; you need to care, and we are here to explain.
We feel the pressure too
All those embryos we work with need your dreams, your savings, your emotional stake. We have a heavy sense of responsibility. Every procedure is checked twice and thrice. Your embryos are carefully labelled, monitored and tracked- because we understand what is at stake.
We are calm and clinical on the outside, but we have a heart beating to give you your future family.
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Success is more than just a positive test
We have an idea of what we want at the end of it all-a baby- but success at the end of the process also involves a good embryo report, a good thaw, and a high fertilisation rate. These are little triumphs we triumph over one another (and in some cases, silently on your behalf). Each forward step is essential.
Don’t quantify yourself on a beta or scan. It is a courageous thing you are doing, and that is the main thing.
Final Thoughts
We do not merely observe the division of cells; as embryologists, we observe possibilities. We can be in the background, but our hearts are behind you all the way. We wish you never to feel uninformed, powerless, or unsupported in your IVF process.
Hence, to us, all embryos are not mere microscopic cells–they are your story in the making.