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What Is Peritoneal Ovum Sperm Transfer?

Peritoneal Ovum (or Oocyte) Sperm Transfer, often referred to as POST, is a fertility treatment method carried out by doctors in clinical settings. The method is used for women as an alternative to in vitro fertilization.

  1. Definitions

    • Peritoneal refers to the tissue that lines the body, and in this case specifically between the ovary and the opening of the fallopian tube. An ovum or oocyte is a single egg.

    Function

    • The goal of POST is for sperm to fertilize an ovum in the peritoneal space and then travel into the fallopian tubes, where fertilization normally occurs.

    Features

    • The procedure starts with the surgical collection of ripe eggs from the ovaries. Sperm is collected from a partner and donor. The cells are then transferred together into the peritoneal space.

    Benefits

    • Bypassing the journey up the uterus gives weak-swimming sperm a better chance at fertilization. According to the Mayo Clinic, only 200 out of tens of millions of sperm make it into the fallopian tubes after intercourse, so the POST procedure is good for women who don't have any tubal deformities.

    Considerations

    • Peritoneal Ovum Sperm Transfer may be confused with GIFT, or Gamete Intra Fallopian Transfer, although they are similar procedures. The basic difference is where the sperm and eggs are placed: In GIFT, they are placed inside the tube.

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