This is how a Day 4 Embryo “Morula” looks like.
Day 4 after fertilization, the embryo (AKA Morula or Mulberry in Latin), undergoes a process called “compaction”. The cells inside the Morula are tightly held together and organize into form of a sphere.
Morula has no prominent distinctive features as compared to Day 2 Embryo, Day 3 Embryo and Day 5 Blastocyst.
Due to the lack of distinctive features, it is not easy to grade the Morula using the method that we used to grade the Day 3 Embryo or Day 5 Blastocyst, besides assessing the potential for successful implantation.
As a result, embryologists tend to leave them alone.
There are new and limited evidence indicating “not to underestimate Day 4 Embryo (Morula) transfer”. Previously, the breakthrough of Day 5 Embryo (Blastocyst) culture and higher Blastocyst implantation as compared to Day 2 and Day 3 Embryo, has led to overlooking on the role of Morula.
The newer and limited evidence suggest that Morula has comparative successful implantation and pregnancy rate when comparing to a Blastocyst Transfer. Also, these evidences state that their clinical pregnancy rate is better than Day 2 and Day 3 Embryo transfer.
As one of the infertility treatment method, the main benefits of being able to transfer Day 4 embryos are that it gives doctors and patients more flexibility and opportunities to transfer an embryo without jeopardizing the chance for a successful pregnancy.
Nevertheless, we should wait for more evidence to reveal more advantages of Morula transfer before we engage in this newer clinical practice.
Watch out! Do not be surprised that Ever Link will be offering Embryo (Morula) transfer in the future. As one of the most reputable natural fertility treatment center in KL, we promise to give you the best we have.