Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a fertility treatment that involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg in a laboratory. This procedure is a type of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and is used to overcome male infertility issues. ICSI helps create a fertilized egg (embryo) which can then be implanted in the uterus.
How ICSI Works: A Step-by-Step Overview
- Ovarian Stimulation: The female partner takes fertility medication to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs.
- Egg Retrieval: The eggs are then retrieved from the ovaries using a minor surgical procedure.
- Sperm Preparation: A sperm sample is collected from the male partner. While different immobilization techniques exist, the goal is to select healthy sperm for injection.
- Injection: A single sperm is injected into each mature egg using a microscopic needle.
- Fertilization & Embryo Culture: The injected eggs are monitored for fertilization and development into embryos.
- Embryo Transfer: Once embryos have reached the appropriate stage, they are transferred into the uterus, where hopefully, implantation occurs.
When is ICSI Used?
ICSI is often used in cases of:
- Severe male factor infertility (low sperm count, poor motility, abnormal morphology)
- Previous IVF failures
- Genetic disorders
- Azoospermia (absence of sperm in semen)
While ICSI has high success rates, it's crucial to understand that it doesn't guarantee pregnancy. The success rate varies depending on factors like the age of the female partner, the cause of infertility, and the experience of the fertility clinic.
ICSI vs. Other Fertility Treatments
It is important to note that ICSI is just one type of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Other methods, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), involve placing prepared sperm directly into the uterus, but do not involve the egg and sperm meeting in a laboratory setting. IVF, a broader category of procedures, encompasses techniques like ICSI, but can also include standard fertilization methods where eggs and sperm are combined in a petri dish. The choice of treatment depends on the specific circumstances and diagnosis.
