Anatomy
An oocyte is the female reproductive cell. Only mature (metaphase II) oocytes can be fertilised. At egg collection a mix of mature and immature oocytes is often retrieved, which is why the number of eggs collected is usually higher than the number that can be used.
Also known as: egg, ova, ovum, eggs
Related Australia guides
Sources
- Healthdirect Australia (healthdirect.gov.au)
- Pregnancy, Birth and Baby (pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)
Last reviewed: 10 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.