#5 Incubation and Fertilization of Eggs The eggs and sperm will be placed together in a special culture fluid and kept in incubators in our laboratory. This process is called insemination. The eggs will be examined 16-20 hours after insemination for signs of fertilization. If fertilization occurs, the fertilized eggs are now described as pre-embryos or zygotes. When they divide to at least 2 cells they are called embryos. The laboratory environment is conducive for fertilization to occur, however, it cannot be guaranteed that fertilization will occur. Typically, 60% of the eggs retrieved will be fertilized. This percentage may be higher or lower depending on each couple. You will be contacted by the embryology staff the morning after the retrieval. Information will be given regarding the status of the eggs, fertilization, and possible cryopreservation (freezing of embryos) at that time. The male partner may need to be available not only the day of the retrieval, but also the day following. A second sperm sample may be needed to re-inseminate those eggs which have not fertilized as yet. |
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