What is an immature egg?

When talking to one of our embryologists, you may hear the term “immature egg” while discussing your fertilisation results. So, what is an immature egg exactly?

An immature egg is an oocyte that has not reached meiotic competency, which means it has not reached the first stages of meiotic division. For normal fertilisation to occur, the egg needs to have the correct number and arrangement of chromosomes.

When an egg is immature, it is not capable of fertilising and will not be injected or inseminated. It is normal to have approximately between 10-15% of immature eggs in one oocyte recovery, however it is possible to see more in some patients.

This is another reason why timing is so essential to your fertility treatment: the time you take your trigger injection and the time you have your egg collection or treatment. We want to maximise your chances of having a successful egg collection and excellent fertilisation rate and most of all, a successful pregnancy.

For more information on how we can help you on your fertility journey contact our clinic or visit our guide to fertility treatment options.

Consultation with a fertility specialist

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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.

What is an immature egg?