What is an embryologist?

What is an embryologist?

Embryologists are the scientists who specialise in reproductive science and literally create babies. The role of an embryologist is considerable, and we make up an important part of the Fertility First team during your treatment.

  • We will ensure the environment in our laboratory is perfect for your growing embryos.
  • We will help Dr Clark and Dr Chesterman with your oocyte retrieval where we search through follicular fluid and find your precious eggs.
  • We will prepare the sperm and eggs for insemination upon arrival from theatre
  • We prepare semen samples for the nurses so you may have your intrauterine insemination (IUI)
  • Our embryologists will thaw eggs for procedures
  • We will freeze your eggs and/or your embryos for cryostorage in our laboratory.
  • We will perform IVF insemination or Intracytoplasmic sperm injection
  • Our laboratory team will monitor, grade and care for your growing embryos
  • When your transfer day arrives, we will either thaw your frozen embryos for your procedure or grade and select the best fresh embryo(s) for your transfer.
  • We will contact our patients with updates on the growth and development of their embryos

 

 

For an embryologist, no two days are the same, we are always caring for unique cases, with every embryo, every sperm sample, every patient, and every case is special. We don’t believe there is greater joy to our careers than to help our patients throughout their fertility journey.

Whether our patients have the successful outcome we so desperately want for them or we are still assisting them on their IUI fertility journey, our passionate embryologists make up part of an incredible team who will always go above and beyond.

Interested in learning more? Visit our fertility blog to keep up-to-date with important news, research and information to support your fertility journey.

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FAQs about improving natural fertility

Will stress affect my ability to get pregnant?

Yes, chronic stress can impact fertility by disrupting hormonal balance and ovulation patterns. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices may help optimise your chances of conception. Consider speaking with a counsellor if stress feels overwhelming.

How does my partner's health affect our fertility?

Sperm health accounts for about 40% of conception challenges. Your partner can improve sperm health by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive heat exposure (hot tubs, saunas, tight clothing), limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, managing stress, and taking a multivitamin with antioxidants. Sperm takes about 3 months to develop, so lifestyle changes need time to show results.

When during my cycle am I most fertile?

Your fertile window typically spans 5-6 days, ending on ovulation day. For a regular 28-day cycle, this usually falls between days 10-15, with peak fertility 1-2 days before ovulation. Track your cycle using ovulation predictor kits, basal body temperature, or cervical mucus changes to identify your unique pattern. Having intercourse every 1-2 days during this window optimises your chances.