Dr. Charulata Chatterjee on ART of Embryology
Dr. Charulata Chatterjee, a distinguished consultant embryologist with a deep passion for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), has been at the forefront of innovations that redefine the boundaries of fertility science. With decades of expertise, Dr. Chatterjee has facilitated countless journeys toward parenthood, blending meticulous scientific methods with profound compassion.
In this exclusive interview with Naresh Nunna of NSH, Dr. Chatterjee shares insights into the evolving landscape of embryology, discussing the transformative impact of technologies like vitrification and chromosomal screening. Join us as we explore the intricate world of embryology through the eyes of a master in the field.
What defines the role and skills of an embryologist in the ART process?
An Embryologist puts together the male and female gamete in the laboratory under the microscope, and to do so they need excellent coordination between their hands, mind, and heart.
The work of an embryologist involves the fertilisation of eggs and the successful implantation of embryos. They often complete highly specialised procedures and can expect to work under strict regulations and quality control practices.
What are the daily responsibilities and precision required in an embryologist’s work?
An embryologist’s day is divided by the buzzing of timers. Our ears are tuned to the sound because most of the work we do in the laboratory requires a comprehensive understanding of time – How long would an embryo be cultured before we freeze it? How long embryos keep in the warming media? How quickly an egg is loaded onto a cryo-device, when a semen sample is ready to be processed? Our timer starts from egg retrieval till successful embryo transfer.
Our clock is tuned to match with growing embryos in the culture dish as the embryos internal time clock stops for no one!
What made you start an Embryology academy and university affiliated Postgraduate and PhD course?
Over the last decade, due to increasing infertility rates there is a rapid expansion of ART clinics. These clinics exemplify the advancements in reproductive medicine in India, while also highlighting the growing need for specialised services in this field among the population.
Recent promising trend in growth unveils a disturbing paradox. The increasing proliferation of ART clinics has led to a noticeable shortage in the availability of skilled embryologists. Embryologists, who are integral to the success of these clinics, play an essential part in the process of ART, assuring optimal outcomes for prospective parents.
The individual’s function is of utmost importance in executing intricate operations, including egg retrieval, in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), embryo grading, embryo transfer, embryo freezing and thawing. Each of these procedures requires a delicate combination of theoretical comprehension, practical skills, and a constant dedication to diligence.
While the infrastructure for ART services has seen commendable expansion, the educational framework needed to nurture embryologists has not kept pace. Many embryologists currently in the field have often resorted to short-term courses or on-the-job training, which might not provide the comprehensive grounding required for this intricate profession. Furthermore, the lack of a standardized curriculum means the quality of training can vary significantly, leading to disparities in service quality across clinics.
Recognizing this palpable gap, there emerges an immediate and pressing need to establish a specialized post-graduate course in Embryology.
Besides that, the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) bill of 2021, recently enacted in the Indian parliament, underscores the nation’s commitment to setting robust standards in the fertility sector. A salient stipulation is that every IVF centre must employ at least two embryologists, demonstrating the government’s recognition of the vital role embryologists play in ensuring quality IVF procedures. Embryologists should hold a post-graduation degree in embryology.
How can the student approach you for getting trained in this specialized field?
Working embryologists who want to enhance their practical skills can take up our skill enhancement course. One can select the course in which they want more hands- on practice and to improve their skills.
We do offer two years of post-graduation in embryology and ART in affiliation with university. We also have a PhD program and One-year PG diploma course.
Log onto our website www.advea.in for more details.
