Insemination

A semen sample is usually collected 1-3 hours following egg retrieval, except in cases where frozen or donor sperm is used. Once the embryologist has assessed egg maturity, the male partner will be given specific instructions as to the timing of collection. Samples are produced on site at the Diagnostic Semen Laboratory. The male partner must present photo identification at the time of collection. The sample will not be accepted without identification. If producing a sample following egg retrieval may be an issue, please speak with the staff prior to the day of retrieval so alternate arrangements can be made. Once the eggs and sperm have been collected, either conventional or ICSI insemination is carried out. This determination of suitability of conventional insemination or ICSI will be decided in consultation with your physician prior to the procedure. In conventional insemination, several thousand sperm are placed with each egg in a Petri dish containing nutrient media. These dishes are then incubated for approximately 16 hours (overnight) and assessed the following morning for fertilization.

Fertilization Check

The morning following egg retrieval, the embryologist will assess the number and quality of fertilized eggs which are now called zygotes. The embryologist will speak with each couple personally to discuss the results. The male partner must remain in Calgary until fertilization is confirmed. In cases of failed or poor fertilization, a second semen sample may be required the morning following retrieval.

Embryo assessment of cell number and quality does not begin until the next day.