Introduction of Quality Control and Risk Management in IVF Laboratory

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) refers to medical interventions for infertile couples to have a baby. The assisted reproduction laboratory, also known as in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratory, is an integral part of the assisted reproduction process and critically affects the IVF clinical outcomes. Its workflow is shown in Fig. 1.1. In the process of an in vivo gestation, the formation and development of an embryo always occur in a light-proof, constant temperature, and low-oxygen environment and are protected by the mother. However, in the case of an in vitro process, the protection provided by the mother is not available, and the development potential of an embryo may be affected by any external factors, from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to changes in humidity, the pH value, or the osmotic pressure, etc. Therefore, a reliable and high-quality IVF laboratory would provide an essential safeguard for the viability and development of gametes and embryos.