What does “abnormal fertilisation” mean?

What does “abnormal fertilisation” mean?

Abnormal fertilisation sometimes occurs in embryos and can be identified by the embryologist by observing the number of pronuclei visible during the fertilisation checks. Your fertilised egg should clearly show two sets of genetic information in the form of pronuclei, one from the egg and one from the sperm.

If the embryologist can only see one pronuclei in the embryo, it’s an indication that the egg has activated but the sperm that entered the egg has not. These embryos have no potential for life and are immediately discarded. Embryos that clearly show more than two pronuclei are also considered abnormal and can occur when more than one sperm penetrates the egg, or during ICSI when there is an abnormal cell division in the egg.

Unfortunately, there is no test for egg quality, the only way we can see if your eggs are normal is by trying to fertilise them. As we know that DNA damage is directly related to egg quality, we also know that the difference in quality between a 25 year old’s eggs and a 40 year old woman’s eggs, is simply a matter of statistical likelihood of the eggs being normal.

There are ways to help reduce DNA fragmentation when it comes to female fertility, most of these ways are able to be accomplished at home without medical interventions or fertility treatments, however, these are merely ways to help increase your chances of falling pregnant, not necessarily a guarantee.

When trying to boost female fertility, simple lifestyle changes such diet, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol and ensuring that you’re not exposing yourself to toxins that can contribute to increased levels of oxidative stress can make a huge difference. Visit our guide the 6 Foods to Help Boost Female Fertility.

Share

Fertility Testing News & Information

FAQ

How does Fertility First keep fertility treatment and IVF costs down?

As a Doctor-owned Medical Practice, our fertility and IVF treatment costs do not need to cover overheads and/or shareholder dividends, all of which have to come out of the income derived from patients’ treatment cycle fees at other fertility clinics in Sydney.

What is the NSW fertility treatment rebates?

From the 1st October 2022, the NSW Government announced a rebate of $2,000 in OOP expenses for all eligible patients. Fertility First is pleased to support the NSW Government’s fertility rebate at our Sydney fertility clinic.

What makes Fertility First different to other Sydney fertility clinics?

Fertility First is privately owned, which means we can place more focus on our patients. We offer a holistic approach to fertility and believe that it’s important to minimise the invasiveness of the fertility testing process and only carry out the necessary investigations, maximising your chance of a successful outcome. We offer extensive preliminary fertility testing, including Halosperm Assay.

We were one of the first Sydney fertility clinics to offer a donor sperm and donor egg program, thanks to our partnership with Central IVF.

How do I choose the best fertilty clinic for me?

Choosing the right fertility clinic in Sydney is a very important decision. You should consider factors like success rates, clinic location and appointment times, fertility treatment costs, repor with the Fertility Specialist and what treatment options are available.

Does Fertility First offer preliminary fertility testing?

Yes. We offer a range of fertility testing for both males and females. We aim to have fertility test results back within 2 to 3 weeks, which means, unless any assessment of the fallopian tubes is required, fertility treatment options can then be considered.

Does Fertility First offer treatment for same sex couples and singles?

Yes. Fertility First offers a range of fertility treatments that are suitable for same sex couples and singles, including our donor sperm program. See our fertility treatment page for a full guide.

Does Fertility First offer Medicare rebates?

Yes. In order to assist you with a Medicare rebate for your fertility treatment, you will need a current referral to Fertility First.

Note: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, and specialist referrals are valid for 3 months.

Does Fertility First offer IVF treatment?

Yes. IVF treatment is offered to suitable patients after preliminary testing.