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Fertility Glossary

Extended embryo culture

Growing embryos to the blastocyst stage (day 5 or 6).

Embryology

Extended culture allows embryologists to see which embryos keep developing. Some embryos stop growing along the way, so fewer may reach day 5 than were present on day 3.

Also known as: blastocyst culture, day 5 culture

Related United Kingdom guides

Last reviewed: 23 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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