Extended embryo culturing 

Extended embryo culturing (also referred to as prolonged embryo cultivation) refers to incubator monitoring of embryo development for more than 48 hours and its subsequent transfer at a later stage of cell division (usually blastocyst).

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What is extended embryo culturing?

With a higher number of embryos, extended culturing allows us to select those with the greatest potential.


The standard culturing time of an embryo in laboratory conditions is 2 – 3 days, during which the embryo goes through the first stages of division into 4 – 8 cells. Extending the culture period to 4 – 6 days does not improve the quality of the embryo as such. It does, however, increase the chances of selecting the best quality embryo, free of developmental abnormalities and with high nesting potential.

Extended embryo culturing | PFC

Prolonged embryo culture — yes or no?

Like any laboratory method, prolonged embryo culture has pros and cons. By prolonging the culture and monitoring, we are better able to identify embryos with the highest potential. On average, 30 – 50% of embryos reach the blastocyst stage, which in itself represents a strong selection process. For this reason, we recommend transfer without prolonged culture to couples with fewer eggs or embryos, after the most important stages of division have been monitored by time-lapse monitoring.

The success rate of prolonged cultivation depends on a number of factors, and the benefits gained through the method are highly individual. That is why our doctors and embryologists recommend this method based on your specific reproductive history. If extended cultivation is a way to increase your chances of achieving your goal of a healthy baby, our team of specialists will discuss this option with you.


Can prolonged cultivation help you? If you would like to discuss your treatment options in person, please contact your IVF Coordinators to arrange a consultation with your doctor.