Egg activation with Ca2+ ionophore

The development of an embryo always begins with sperm entry into an egg. After that, various chemical reactions are launched in eggs, including a change in the number of calcium ions. These elements play a crucial role in oocyte activation.

If during natural fertilization, the amount of ejaculate is sufficient to start these processes, then the ICSI protocol requires egg activation. This procedure is called artificial oocyte activation. It is essential since, in this case, there is only one sperm, albeit the best in terms of mobility and shape.

To maximize the chances of conceiving a child, egg activation is performed under the supervision of professional fertility specialists at all stages. The procedure assumes adding the oocyte to a calcium-rich medium for 15 minutes. This is necessary to activate the egg and start fertilization.

Indications for oocyte activation with Ca2+ ionophore

• situations when, during previous ICSI protocols, there was a complete absence or a small number of fertilized eggs

• pathological ejaculate problems

• fertilization with ejaculate samples obtained through TESA (testicular biopsy)

• failure of other IVF protocols.

Egg activation in this way has proved its efficiency if fertilization problems are caused by calcium deficiency. This procedure is one of the IVF stages. It is used in cases of unsatisfactory results of the previous cycle.