Artificial Oocyte Activation with Calcium Ionophore May Improve Implantation of Potential in Recalcitrant Infertility

This case report describes a couple who achieved two live births after seven failed in vitro fertilization cycles by theaddition of artificial oocyte activation (AOA) to the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) used in their normalcourse of treatment. Their fertilization history was within normal limits, but implantation failed to occur afterseveral fresh embryo transfers as well as preimplantation genetic tested (PGT) frozen embryo transfers. The additionof AOA may have augmented the patient’s typical oocyte activation, leading to more robust embryo developmentand thus implantation. The safety and efficacy of the technique is reasonably established and should be consideredan option before recommending donor gametes to patients in cases of repeated implantation failures.