Previous steps

Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COHS)
Assisted Reproduction Techniques require the presence of numerous eggs. To achieve hyperovulation, ovaries are stimulated with certain compounds such as clomiphene citrate and gonadotropins HMG, FSH and FSH recombinant. They all intend to ensure a large number of eggs by the time the ART is to be applied.

Ovulation Ultrasound Monitoring
An important part of the treatment is the pre-ovulatory ultrasound monitoring. Transvaginal ultrasonograms are taken on a daily basis to observe, count and measure follicles (liquid-filled cavities containing the eggs) in the ovaries. With this ultrasound monitoring, the adequate timing to perform the procedure can be determined.

Follicular Aspiration
Based on the development, maturity and size of ovarian follicles, hormonal levels and some other factors, a physician decides when to take eggs from the patient. This is a simple procedure which is performed in the operating room with either epidural or general anesthesia. A fine needle attached to the transvaginal ultrasound transducer pierces ovary walls and suctions the eggs with a vacuum system.
Eggs retrieved will receive the treatment chosen by the patient.
This procedure typically takes some 30 minutes.
- Sperm Enhancement:
The male partner will be asked to provide a semen sample in the same morning egg retrieval or insemination is to be performed. He will have to abstain from sexual activity during the three previous days. Sample semen is enhanced with a special washing technique to select the healthiest sperms.

Lab Reproduction Assistance
A biologist assists the union between eggs and sperms which should result in an embryo and will wait for the embryo to be made up of 6 – 8 cells to proceed with embryo transfer.