For the first time, scientists have recorded a real-time 3D video showing how a human embryo implants into the uterus. The breakthrough could help improve fertility treatments such as IVF.

The research was carried out by the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) in Spain. A synthetic uterus model was used to study the natural process, and the artificial embryos were donated by Dexeus University Hospital in Barcelona.

What the video shows

Researchers explained that the video has given them a new understanding of how embryos implant. Samuel Ojosnegros, principal investigator for the Bioengineering for Reproductive Health Group at IBEC and co-author of the study, said, "We have observed that human embryos burrow into the uterus, exerting considerable force during the process."

He described the implantation as a surprisingly invasive step. He added that when an embryo implants, it has to push into and merge with the uterus tissue to begin pregnancy. Many women may feel cramps or light bleeding when this happens, but until now, nobody had actually seen the process.

According to Live Science, implantation occurs when the embryo sticks to the inner lining of the uterus and begins to grow by making more cells. Ojosnegros explained that when implantation fails, the pregnancy cannot continue. This is also one of the biggest reasons for infertility and is linked to about 60 per cent of miscarriages.

Why it matters for fertility

Implantation normally happens six to twelve days after ovulation, when a fertilised egg attaches to the uterine lining. Researcher Amelie Godeau told The Guardian that the embryo actively changes the uterus during this stage. She said, "It also reacts to external force cues. We hypothesise that contractions occurring in vivo may influence embryo implantation."

The study further explained that contractions in the uterus might play a big role in whether implantation is successful. During the menstrual cycle, the uterus shows spontaneous contractions one to two times every minute. The findings suggest that there may be a certain frequency of contractions that is ideal for embryo implantation.

This discovery, scientists say, could help improve fertility treatments and give new hope to couples struggling with infertility.

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