ESHRE recommendations on Good Practice in the IVF laboratory†.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Embryology
• Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Background:

• Previous ESHRE guidelines for IVF laboratories were published in 2015.
• Advancements in ART techniques, procedural complexity, and revised European legislation necessitated an update.
• The updated guidelines address current standards in IVF laboratory practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish current good practice in the IVF laboratory.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for all IVF laboratory activities.
• To incorporate expertise and consensus from a multidisciplinary working group.

Main Methods:

• A predefined methodology for ESHRE Good Practice recommendations was followed.
• A working group of 10 experts from relevant ESHRE Special Interest Groups reviewed and updated the 2015 guidelines.
• Recommendations were formulated based on literature evidence and expert consensus, followed by stakeholder review and ESHRE Executive Committee approval.

Main Results:

• Updated recommendations cover general IVF laboratory organization (staffing, quality management, safety) and specific procedures.
• Specific procedures include patient identification, oocyte retrieval, sperm preparation, insemination, embryo culture/transfer, biopsy for PGT, cryopreservation, and emergency protocols.
• Key updates include a revised section on embryo culture and transfer, an expanded sperm preparation section, and a new section on embryo biopsy.

Conclusions:

• The updated ESHRE Recommendations on Good Practice in the IVF laboratory provide comprehensive guidance.
• Recommendations are based on available evidence, legal documents, and expert consensus.
• This guideline is intended to assist IVF laboratory directors, managers, embryologists, and technicians in daily operations.