The injection of sperm to get pregnant is called Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), a specialized form of in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Here's a breakdown:
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Explained
ICSI is a procedure used to help couples experiencing infertility, particularly those with male factor infertility, achieve pregnancy. It involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg in a laboratory setting. This contrasts with traditional IVF where sperm and eggs are mixed together in a dish, relying on the sperm to fertilize the egg on its own.
Why is ICSI Used?
ICSI is typically recommended in situations where:
- Low Sperm Count: The male partner has a very low sperm count.
- Poor Sperm Motility: The sperm don't swim well.
- Abnormal Sperm Morphology: The sperm have an unusual shape.
- Previous IVF Failure: Prior IVF attempts have failed to result in fertilization.
- Surgical Sperm Retrieval: Sperm are retrieved directly from the testicles (e.g., TESE, PESA).
The ICSI Procedure:
- Egg Retrieval: The female partner undergoes ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved.
- Sperm Preparation: A single sperm is selected for injection.
- Injection: Using a specialized microscope and micromanipulation equipment, the embryologist holds the egg with a pipette and carefully injects the sperm directly into the cytoplasm (inner part) of the egg.
- Fertilization Assessment: The eggs are monitored for signs of fertilization.
- Embryo Transfer: If fertilization occurs successfully, the resulting embryo(s) are transferred to the woman's uterus.
ICSI vs. Traditional IVF
The key difference lies in how fertilization occurs:
| Feature | Traditional IVF | ICSI |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilization Method | Sperm and eggs are mixed in a dish. | A single sperm is injected directly into each egg. |
| Sperm Quality | Requires good sperm quality and motility. | Can overcome many sperm quality issues. |
| Primary Use | General infertility issues. | Male factor infertility. |
Success Rates
ICSI has significantly improved fertilization rates, offering hope to couples who might not have been able to conceive otherwise. Success rates depend on various factors, including the woman's age and the quality of the eggs and sperm.
