The embryologist evaluates the quality of the eggs and fertilizes each of them with one sperm. Fertilization is performed using active micromanipulation methods (ICSI, PISCI), which significantly increase the embryo formation success rate.
We offer our clients a SpermPacket (for fertilization) containing a suitable combination of methods. This package includes ICSI or PICSI and optimal sperm selection, which is performed in two ways – MACS or a Zymot chip.
The method chosen to select the optimal sperm is based on previous laboratory tests, patient needs and current spermiogram parameters. The MACS method removes defective sperm with fragmented DNA from the ejaculate sample. The Zymot chip method gently sorts out the sperm with the highest motility and viability.
Embryo cultivation
After the egg has been fertilized with sperm, our embryologists monitor your embryos and make sure they develop properly. The embryo is cultured for 5 to 6 days to the blastocyst stage. We offer our clients the use of state-of-the-art MIRI Time-Lapse Incubators. These incubators ensure the best care for the embryos, providing a separate space for cultivation while continuously recording their development via a built-in camera. Since there is no need to remove them from the incubator for microscopic examination, there is no variation in the parameters of the culture conditions.
In cycles where preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), is planned, on the 5th — 6th day of development a few cells are taken from the embryo and this sample is tested in the genetic laboratory. Meanwhile, the embryos are vitrified (frozen).
Most frequently asked questions
What is classical or conventional IVF and why is it so rarely used these days?
This is a method in which eggs and sperm are placed in a “test tube” and we wait to see if spontaneous fertilization occurs without further intervention by an embryologist. However, this original method has a relatively low success rate and has been more or less replaced by the ICSI and PICSI methods.
What does the ICSI method involve?
The ICSI method is the most commonly used micromanipulation technique, in which embryologists actively transfer one sperm into each egg.
For whom is the PICSI method suitable and how exactly does it work?
The PICSI method is suitable for you if the proportion of eggs fertilized by ICSI has been low in previous cycles, if the embryos have not developed as well as they should or if there has been a miscarriage. The main role in the PICSI method is played by hyaluronan, which is an important natural component of the egg envelope. The head of a mature sperm carries a specific receptor that allows it to bind to hyaluronan. With the PICSI method, the embryologist selects for micromanipulation fertilization those sperm that show a positive binding to the hyaluronan gel.