Evaluation of oocyte quality in an IVF program

Importance of Oocyte Quality

The quality of oocytes obtained through follicular aspiration in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) program plays a key role in the viability of the embryo and influences the chances of successful pregnancy. High-quality mature oocytes have the greatest potential for fertilization. Embryologists select these oocytes using a multi-magnification microscope, which allows for the determination of their morphological state as accurately as possible.

The Oocyte Quality Assessment Process

The study of the morphological parameters of female reproductive cells is an important step in selecting oocytes with the best potential. This process is carried out in the embryology laboratory of the reproductive medicine clinic using high-tech equipment. One of the main markers of oocyte maturity is the presence of the first polar body.

Oocyte maturation occurs during controlled hormonal stimulation. However, not all female reproductive cells reach maturity. Oocytes that are likely to be fertilized must be at the metaphase II (M2) stage.

Oocytes that have not reached maturity may present in one of the following two forms:

• Metaphase of Meiosis I (M1), a transitional stage of maturation;
• Germinal Vesicle (GV) - the initial stage of maturation.

Criteria for Assessing Oocyte Quality

Embryologists determine the quality of oocytes based on several morphological characteristics:

Signs of High Oocyte Quality:

• Homogeneous Cytoplasm - a uniform structure without visible defects;
• Uniform Color - consistent coloration;
• Absence of Granularity - smooth cytoplasm.

Signs of Poor Oocyte Quality:

• Presence of Vacuoles - bubble inclusions in the cytoplasm;
• Dark Cell Coloring indicates degenerative changes;
• Inclusions and Deformations - various deviations from the norm;
• Cytoplasmic Granularity - inhomogeneous structure.

What to Do if Oocyte Quality is Low?

If the received oocytes are of poor quality and the likelihood of successful fertilization is reduced, patients may be offered other reproductive techniques:

• IVF with Oocyte Donation - a method that uses a donor oocyte if the patient has a reduced ovarian reserve, genetic diseases, or if previous IVF cycles have failed.
• IVF with Double Donation - in this case, both donor oocytes and sperm are used, which is particularly important for couples with severe genetic pathologies or significant deviations in the quality of germ cells.

The use of these methods significantly increases the chances of a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child. The specialists at the "Natuvitro" clinic will help you select the optimal treatment program and choose the most appropriate IVF method to achieve the desired result.

Where to Assess Oocyte Quality?

The determination of oocyte quality and their selection for subsequent fertilization are carried out in specialized reproductive medicine clinics. The "Natuvitro" clinic utilizes modern technologies and protocols for oocyte selection, which significantly enhances the chances of IVF success.

The specialists at the clinic carefully analyze the morphological state of the oocytes, apply advanced selection techniques, and recommend the most effective treatment strategies to patients. If you have any questions or would like to undergo an examination, make an appointment for a consultation with a specialist. You can schedule an appointment by calling the phone number listed in the Contacts section of the clinic's website.