Sara Díez

Since I was a child, I have always been very curious. I was fascinated by understanding the ‘why’ of things, especially the complexity of the human body. I knew even then that I wanted to do something that would, in one way or another, contribute to improving people’s lives. When I discovered embryology, I immediately felt that it brought together two fundamental pillars for me: on the one hand, the technical and scientific component of biology, which has always been my guide; and on the other hand, the possibility of seeing how such meticulous and manual work has a direct, profound and special impact on the lives of many people, which has always been my driving force.

To be honest, no. When I was an undergraduate, embryology was not one of the most common career paths; it was a rather unknown speciality. However, following a personal experience that touched me very closely, and after my first internship in an IVF laboratory, I knew this was for me.

Without a doubt, the thought that, even though my work takes place in the laboratory, my work can make a huge difference in someone’s life. To be part of the process that turns the dream of so many of our patients into reality is truly incredible and difficult to put into words.

As embryologists, we are aware, at every step we take, that behind each oocyte, each embryo, each procedure we carry out in the laboratory… there is a real story, full of effort, fear, hope, vulnerability… We know the great responsibility we have in our hands, but also the enormous privilege of what it means to be witnesses to the beginning of a new life

When interacting with couples, above all, I try to make them feel listened to, accompanied and supported in such a difficult process… but at the same time, I consider it essential to be clear and careful in the way I explain the information so that they can fully understand the situation. Embryology is a speciality with a high scientific and technical level, in which we use terminology and concepts of biology that are not always easy to understand. Therefore, transmitting this knowledge to couples is essential, but it is of no use if it is not done in a way that is accessible and understandable. Doing that is the only way they can understand their situation, follow the process with more peace of mind and make informed decisions. For me, the balance lies in the integration of these key aspects: never losing the scientific rigour without forgetting that on the other side there are people going through a very emotionally charged process.

There are many cases that we experience very deeply in the laboratory: couples who have been through repeated implantation failure, recurrent miscarriage, or many years of infertility. Each one carries its own story, and when you know how long and how hard the journey has been, finally seeing a positive outcome is incredibly moving for all of us.

On a personal level, I was very touched by the case of a patient who decided to embark on the path of single motherhood. I was closely involved in her treatment, keeping her informed about the development of her embryos throughout the laboratory cycle. It was not an easy start, and at first it seemed that the odds were not in her favour. Despite this, the cycle progressed very well, and she became pregnant following her first fresh embryo transfer.

Several months later, she returned to the clinic so that I could meet her beautiful baby in person. It was the first time a patient had shared such a tangible and personal ending to the journey with me, and it is something I will always remember with great emotion, as embryologists do not often get to witness that final, joyful chapter.

What matters most to me, and what truly reflects my values, is spending time with the people I love, especially my family.  When I am feeling more outgoing, I really enjoy music, concerts, festivals and dancing until I can’t stand on my feet.  At other times, I prefer quieter moments and simple pleasures: going for a relaxed walk, spending time in nature, reading a good book, learning something new, or cooking slowly and with care.

All of these small, everyday moments help me reconnect with myself, recharge, and continue to bring dedication, empathy and presence into everything I do.