What is ICSI?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a highly advanced fertility treatment designed to help couples facing severe male infertility or cases where previous IVF attempts have been unsuccessful. In this procedure, a single healthy sperm is carefully selected and directly injected into the cytoplasm of a mature egg under a high-powered microscope. This precise technique significantly increases the chances of fertilization, making it one of the most effective options for couples where sperm quality, count, or motility is a concern. ICSI has transformed the possibilities for achieving pregnancy in cases once considered very challenging.
When is ICSI Recommended?
ICSI is often recommended in situations where male infertility factors are the main obstacle to conception. These include very low sperm count (oligospermia), poor sperm motility (asthenozoospermia), abnormal sperm shape (teratozoospermia), or the presence of antisperm antibodies. It is also used in cases where sperm can only be retrieved surgically from the testes or epididymis, as in obstructive azoospermia. Additionally, couples who have had failed or poor fertilization results in previous IVF cycles, or when eggs have been cryopreserved for a long time, may greatly benefit from ICSI.
ICSI Procedure – Step by Step
The ICSI process begins with the same ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval steps used in IVF. Once the eggs are collected, the embryologist examines the sperm sample and selects the healthiest sperm using advanced micromanipulation tools. Each egg is then injected with the selected sperm using a fine glass needle. The fertilized eggs are monitored for several days to ensure proper development into embryos. Finally, one or more healthy embryos are transferred into the woman’s uterus, and the remaining high-quality embryos may be frozen for future use. This meticulous approach maximizes the chances of successful fertilization and healthy embryo growth.
Success Rates and Benefits
ICSI offers excellent success rates, especially for couples struggling with severe male infertility. The fertilization rate per egg is significantly higher compared to conventional IVF methods, and the treatment bypasses many natural barriers that prevent sperm from penetrating the egg. This makes ICSI particularly valuable when only a few viable sperm are available or when sperm must be surgically extracted. Furthermore, ICSI allows couples with long-standing infertility issues or poor IVF outcomes to achieve pregnancy, bringing hope and new possibilities.
Our Expertise in ICSI Treatment
We provide world-class ICSI treatment with a patient-centered approach, combining advanced technology with personalized care. Our fertility specialists, embryologists, and laboratory teams work together to ensure the highest standards of safety and precision at every stage. From comprehensive male fertility assessments to expert sperm selection techniques, we ensure that every couple receives the best chance of success. We also provide emotional support and counseling throughout the journey, as we understand the challenges that come with infertility treatment. With our expertise, commitment, and state-of-the-art facilities, we are dedicated to turning your dream of parenthood into reality.