Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a specialized technique used in in vitro fertilization (IVF), has revolutionized assisted conception. For couples struggling with male infertility or previous IVF fertilization failures, ICSI offers renewed hope for achieving a successful pregnancy.

What is ICSI?

It is a microscopic procedure where a single healthy sperm is directly injected into the cytoplasm (central part) of a mature egg. This bypasses the natural fertilization process, where sperm needs to penetrate the egg’s outer shell on its own.

When is this used?

It is most commonly used in cases of:

• Severe male infertility: When sperm count is low, motility (movement) is poor, or morphology (shape) is abnormal.
• Blocked ejaculatory ducts: A condition where sperm cannot travel from the testicles to the semen.
• Previous failed IVF fertilization attempts: If standard IVF resulted in unsuccessful fertilization.
• Using donor sperm: ICSI can be used with sperm donation for couples who require it.

The ICSI Procedure

This process is typically performed within the IVF cycle:

1. Ovulation stimulation: The woman undergoes hormonal medication to stimulate the development of multiple mature eggs.
2. Egg retrieval: Mature eggs are collected from the woman’s ovaries through a minor surgical procedure.
3. Sperm preparation: A semen sample is obtained from the male partner or sperm donor. The healthiest sperm are isolated and immobilized for injection.
4. ICSI procedure: Using microscopic tools, a single sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of each mature egg.
5. Fertilization and embryo development: The eggs are monitored for signs of fertilization. Fertilized eggs develop into embryos over several days.
6. Embryo transfer: One or more healthy embryos are implanted into the woman’s uterus for potential pregnancy.

ICSI Clinic in Hubli

Success Rates of ICSI

It have significantly improved IVF success rates, particularly for couples facing male infertility. However, success rates can vary depending on individual factors like maternal age, egg quality, and embryo health.

Important Considerations with ICSI

While this offers a powerful tool for achieving pregnancy, there are some key points to consider:

• Increased risk of multiple births: Due to the transfer of multiple embryos, there’s a higher chance of twins, triplets, or higher-order multiples.
• Potential for genetic concerns: Some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of certain birth defects with ICSI compared to natural conception.
• Emotional and psychological aspects: The IVF process, including ICSI, can be emotionally demanding. Open communication and support are crucial.

Deciding if ICSI is Right for You

If you’re considering IVF and have concerns about male infertility or previous fertilization issues, consult a fertility specialist. They can discuss your specific situation and determine if ICSI could be beneficial for your journey to parenthood.