Eggs, sperm & embryos
A hatching blastocyst is starting to emerge from the zona pellucida, a step that must happen naturally before implantation. Seeing it in the laboratory is a sign of continued development, though it does not guarantee that implantation will follow.
Also known as: hatched blastocyst, hatching embryo
Related South Africa guides
Sources
- ESHRE/ICMART glossary and ESHRE laboratory guidance
Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.