Q. How can I be certain that our clinic won’t accidentally mix up my eggs, my partner’s sperm, or our embryos with someone else’s?
A. We understand that even with the best intentions, human error can happen. That’s why we’ve implemented a rigorous SurTransferSM laboratory security system that includes color-coding and clear labeling for all specimens, along with verbal confirmations of patient identities. Our lab team is one of the most highly trained in the nation; every embryologist is Board Certified and Licensed, even though licensure isn’t mandated in our state.
When a procedure is scheduled, a written requisition is sent to our lab staff at least 24 hours in advance with detailed instructions. Each patient is assigned a specific color for their test tubes and Petri dishes, ensuring no two patients undergoing procedures on the same day share the same color. All specimens are clearly labeled with the patient’s name and date of birth.
During the lab process, eggs, sperm, and embryos are kept in incubators, and we avoid placing two cases in the same incubator on the same day. Each incubator features both an exterior and interior door, both of which are labeled with the corresponding name and color code. This allows our embryologists to verify the name twice before handling any specimen. We also have two embryologists present during all critical procedures: while one handles the material, the other observes and confirms the process. We go above and beyond to ensure accuracy, as both embryologists sign off after verifying the paperwork and labeling.
Accepting Sperm Samples
When a male delivers his sample, it’s labeled with their unique info, including name, birth date, and initials. We also check identification. The embryologist who receives the sample will sign for it, recording the date and time, and if passed to another staff member, that person also signs off to maintain a chain of custody.
Egg Retrieval
When a patient is in the retrieval room, they are asked to confirm their identity by stating their full name before receiving any sedatives. This avoids any potential miscommunication. Two embryologists are responsible for accepting the eggs collected.
Inseminating Eggs
This step, while seemingly straightforward, is critically important. We ensure that two embryologists perform the insemination, regardless of whether there is just one egg or several.
Embryo Transfer
Similar to the retrieval process, one embryologist will ask the patient their name, while a second one verifies that the correct embryos are being loaded into the transfer catheter. For a final check, the embryologist hands the catheter to the physician, stating the patient’s full name and the number of embryos.
Freezing and Thawing Specimens
Frozen specimens are extensively labeled and cataloged. Thawing can only be directed by a physician; an embryologist never handles or thaws a specimen without a witness. Once a specimen is thawed, there’s no going back.
For a deeper dive into family building through methods like insemination, check out our post on how to complete your family with Make a Mom. If you’re interested in boosting fertility, Make a Mom’s fertility booster for men is a great resource! For further information on IVF, visit this Mayo Clinic page that offers excellent insights.
In summary, our clinic is dedicated to ensuring the utmost care and precision throughout the fertility process. With our comprehensive security measures and highly trained staff, you can trust that your journey with us will be handled with the highest level of professionalism and accuracy.