1. Laboratory Environment. The Best labs take measures to assure good air quality such as positive air pressure in the lab, HEPA filtration of lab air, extra filters to remove volatile organic compounds (think smelly chemicals like organic solvents- tile adhesives, paints, ethanols) from the air, use of laminar flow hood to keep work surfaces sterile and heated stages to maintain warm temperatures for embryos and gametes when they are being handled outside of the incubator. These are really minimal requirements but surprisingly, these minimal requirements are not consistently found in every IVF lab.
2. The Human Factor. High success rates are associated with a sufficient number of experienced IVF personnel (doctors, nurses and lab technicians). Members of the IVF team need to have a consistent approach and high attention to detail. Good communication between all members of the team has been found essential to keep everyone on track and alert to problems.
3. Certifications: Ask your doctor if the lab you will be using is CLIA and CAP certified as well as registered with the FDA. Feel free to ask for this documentation before you start your cycle. You are making a huge step and don’t want to make a huge mistake after you find out that the lab you chose wasn’t top notch.
Hope this helps
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