By Dr Lynn Burmeister
One of the questions that comes up regularly in consultations is about embryo glue.
Many patients arrive having read about it online or had it mentioned during previous treatment.
It is often presented as something important, sometimes even as something that could make a significant difference. So, it is worth taking a moment to explain it clearly.
What Embryo Glue Actually Is
Embryo glue is a specialised transfer medium used when placing an embryo into the uterus. It contains a substance called hyaluronan, which is naturally present in the uterus at the time an embryo would typically implant.
In simple terms, it is designed to more closely replicate the natural environment during the embryo transfer process.
What It Does, and What It Doesn’t Do
This is where confusion often arises. Embryo glue does not “stick” the embryo in place. Implantation is not a mechanical process. It is a complex biological interaction that depends on multiple factors aligning at the right time.
What embryo glue may do is support the interaction between the embryo and the uterine lining at the point of transfer. Its role is supportive, not decisive.
Does Embryo Glue Improve IVF Success?
There is some evidence that embryo glue may offer a modest benefit in certain situations, particularly for patients who have experienced previous unsuccessful IVF cycles. However, it is important to keep this in perspective.
- Embryo quality
- Timing of transfer
- How treatment is managed and adjusted
Embryo glue sits alongside these factors, but it does not replace them.
How We Approach It at No.1 Fertility
At No.1 Fertility, embryo glue is included as part of our standard embryo transfer approach. We do not present it as an optional add-on or charge separately for its use.
If something is safe, evidence-based, and may offer a potential benefit, even a small one, we believe it should be part of routine care rather than an additional decision patients feel pressured to make.
Because in IVF, outcomes are rarely determined by one single element, but by how all aspects of care come together.
Where the Real Difference Is Made
- Understanding how your body responds
- Interpreting what happens at each stage of treatment
- Adjusting the plan early when needed
This is where meaningful differences are often made.
If You’ve Had IVF Before
For patients who have already been through IVF, embryo glue is often part of the conversation. But the more important question is not what was used, it is what was learned.
- How your ovaries responded
- How your embryos developed
- Whether timing or protocol could be optimised
Understanding and applying that information is often what influences the next outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Embryo Glue
It may offer a modest benefit in some patients, particularly after previous unsuccessful cycles. However, it is not the main driver of success.
No, at No.1 Fertility it is included as part of our standard IVF approach.
No. Implantation is a biological process and cannot be mechanically assisted in that way.
It may be part of the discussion, but the priority should be understanding the previous cycle and whether any adjustments are needed.
Yes. It contains substances naturally found in the uterus and has been used safely in IVF for many years.
A Considered Perspective
Embryo glue is not the reason IVF works. But it can be part of a well-managed treatment approach.
At No.1 Fertility, the focus is not on adding more, but on making considered decisions at the right time, based on your individual situation.
Because in fertility treatment, while small details can contribute, it is the overall approach that has the greatest impact.
If you are exploring details like embryo glue, you are already asking thoughtful and informed questions. The next step is understanding the broader picture and what approach is most appropriate for you.
You are always welcome to speak with our team or request a second opinion.
