IVF labs are combining innovative curiosity with workflow standardization
Three days on the expo floor, and here’s what stuck. Labs aren’t solely focused on the new and shiny, they’re instead asking what saves time, reduces variability, and works within existing systems and improves results.
Why it matters: Staffing pressure is reshaping technology adoption. Embryologists are prioritizing tools that deliver reproducibility across skill levels and integrate seamlessly into current protocols. Efficiency and standardization now outweigh novelty.
The big themes driving lab decisions
#1 Fast warming for blastocysts has crossed over (oocytes haven’t)
Fast warming is becoming standard practice for blastocysts. Many labs have already adopted or are actively preparing to implement faster warming and vitrification protocols for blastocysts.
“The ever-changing vitrification environment was very popular this year! With our new Fast Warm – NX release and our Vit Kit – NX protocol update for fast freeze, we had lots of people stop by for information and demonstration on this,” said Nexpring Health clinical specialist Brad Zavy, who co-led our vitrification workshop at ASRM.
What’s next: Oocyte fast warming is still met with caution. Labs want published peer-reviewed data and real-world case discussions before committing. Some embryologists are seeking peer-led implementation guidance, not just manufacturer claims.
So what: Faster workflows only deliver value if survival and clinical outcomes remain consistent.
#2 Workflow efficiency is the priority
Labs are evaluating products based on time savings and reproducibility, not just performance specs.
What embryologists told us they need:
- Standardized protocols that reduce variability across staff skill levels
- Techniques that don’t require retraining or workflow disruption
- Solutions that integrate with existing lab technologies
For example: When labs switch sperm preparation systems, they often don’t want to alter centrifugation protocols. One study showed that transitioning between density gradient media can maintain sperm recovery rates without changing g-force settings (no protocol rewrites or staff retraining).1
Labs are also focused on standardizing high-skill techniques like embryo biopsy. The demand for peer-to-peer skill transfer and advanced workshops is particularly strong “in regions where biopsy practices are still developing”, said Xiao Zhang, clinical science and education manager at Nexpring Health, who led a biopsy workshop at the conference.
The pattern: Labs are homing in their protocols and choosing solutions that fit into existing workflows without requiring extensive revalidation.
#3 Low lactate, less stress
Low-lactate single-medium systems are appealing because they reduce embryo metabolic stress and streamline media management.
The data: Study findings indicate that using one low-lactate, low-glucose medium from insemination through blastocyst culture can support fertilization rates comparable to dedicated fertilization media, while increasing usable blastocyst yield.2 Higher blastocyst quality from continuous low lactate medium can translate to improved IVF outcomes.3
Why it matters: One medium. Fewer dish changes. Less variability. Single-step low lactate = less unnecessary stress on developing embryos.
#4 Automation and AI (high interest, real barriers)
Labs are actively exploring automated dish prep, denudation/ICSI systems, morphokinetics with AI scoring, and verification integration into cryo workflows.
The roadblock: Compatibility. Labs want automation that works with their existing systems, doesn’t disrupt established workflows, and comes at a justifiable price point. Trust in the technology also presents a significant barrier to AI adoption.
AI and automation will continue to gain ground, but adoption will be gradual and selective. Labs are prioritizing tools that solve specific pain points over comprehensive system overhauls.
Bottom line, the field is moving toward three clear priorities
Standardization.
Protocols that reduce operator variability and training burden are winning over complex, high-touch techniques.
Data-driven validation.
Peer-reviewed evidence and real-world case studies for new ART tech is a must.
Reliability.
Labs are choosing solutions that make their teams more efficient and their outcomes more consistent.
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Sources:
- M.J. Doukakis. Exploring the effects of varying centrifugal force on density gradient processed semen samples. Poster presented at: American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Scientific Congress & Expo; October, 2025; San Antonio, Texas.
- E.E. DiPietro. Effectiveness of low lactate, low glucose continuous culture medium in supporting oocytes and spermatozoa during conventional insemination. Poster presented at: American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Scientific Congress & Expo; October, 2025; San Antonio, Texas.
- Kobanawa M. Fertilization, embryo culture, and clinical results using low lactate embryo culture medium for pre-culture, insemination, and beyond. Reprod Med Biol. 2022;21(1):e12458. Published 2022 Apr 6. doi:10.1002/rmb2.12458