Anatomy & hormones
An oocyte is the female reproductive cell, commonly called an egg. Oocytes develop within ovarian follicles, and one is usually released at ovulation each cycle. During IVF, multiple oocytes are collected at egg retrieval after ovarian stimulation, then assessed for maturity before fertilisation by conventional IVF insemination or ICSI. Only mature (metaphase II) oocytes can be fertilised.
Also known as: egg, egg cell, ovum
Related India guides
Sources
- Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
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.