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Fertility Glossary

Time-lapse embryo imaging

Incubators that photograph embryos continuously without disturbing them.

Clinics, laboratory & costs

Time-lapse systems photograph embryos at frequent intervals inside the incubator, so development can be reviewed without removing them. This gives more information and a more stable environment, but the evidence that it increases live birth rates compared with standard culture and assessment is not conclusive, and clinics may charge extra for it.

Also known as: EmbryoScope, time lapse, time-lapse incubator

Sources

  • Cochrane reviews of IVF add-ons

Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only β€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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