b) extraction of the oocytes from the ovary: this is performed transvaginally by punction and aspiration. The procedure is done under visual echographic control and with the patient under partial sedation which usually lasts for 5-10 minutes. The whole process is ambulatory (no hospitalization).
c) identification of the oocytes: in the laboratory, follicular liquid is analyzed to identify the optimum oocytes and determine their state of maturity. d) preparation of the sperm: the spermatozoa are isolated from the other components. Mobile spermatozoa are placed in a plate where the oocytes are in a culture medium.