Fertilisation failure

Fertilisation failure means that none of the eggs collected during an IVF or ICSI cycle fertilise to form embryos. It can happen even when sperm and egg numbers and quality appear adequate beforehand, and is more common with conventional IVF insemination than with ICSI, which is one reason ICSI may be recommended after a previous cycle of unexplained fertilisation failure. Possible contributing factors include underlying egg or sperm quality issues that were not apparent from standard tests, or, rarely, an issue with how sperm and egg interact. In many cases, despite investigation, no clear single cause is identified. The embryology and clinical team will discuss the specific findings from that cycle and whether any changes, such as using ICSI in a future cycle, may be considered. Fertilisation failure can be a distressing outcome, and clinics in India generally offer a follow-up consultation to review what happened and discuss options for a future cycle; counselling support is also often available and can be requested from the clinic.

Also known as: failed fertilisation, zero fertilisation ivf, eggs did not fertilise

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.