ICSI ( IntraCytoplasmic Sperm Injection ) is the injection of a single sperm directly into the cytoplasm of the egg.
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It is a specialized technique used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) to facilitate fertilization during in vitro fertilization (IVF). It is primarily used when there are concerns about the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg naturally or in cases of male infertility. Here’s how ICSI works:
Prior to ICSI, the woman undergoes ovarian stimulation to produce multiple mature eggs, similar to the standard IVF process. The eggs are monitored through ultrasound scans and hormone-level testing.
The mature eggs are retrieved from the woman’s ovaries using transvaginal ultrasound-guided egg retrieval. This is a minor surgical procedure in which a needle is guided through the vaginal wall to collect the eggs.
On the day of egg retrieval, a semen sample is obtained from the male partner or a sperm donor. The sample is processed in the laboratory to isolate the healthiest and most motile sperm for the ICSI procedure.
In ICSI, a single selected sperm is injected directly into each mature egg using a fine glass needle. This is done under a specialized microscope by skilled embryologists. The embryologist immobilizes the egg with a holding pipette and carefully inserts the sperm into the egg’s cytoplasm.
After the microinjection, the eggs are placed in an incubator and monitored for signs of fertilization. Over the following days, the fertilized eggs develop into embryos through cell division. The embryologists monitor the embryos’ development and assess their quality.
Usually, a few days after fertilization, one or more embryos are selected for transfer into the woman’s uterus. The embryo transfer procedure is performed in a similar manner to standard IVF, as explained in the previous response.
ICSI provides a direct method of achieving fertilization and can overcome certain barriers to fertilization that may be present, such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology. By injecting a single sperm directly into the egg, the chances of fertilization are significantly improved.
It’s important to note that ICSI is not always necessary or recommended for every IVF case. Our Fertility specialist, Dr. K D Nayar will determine whether ICSI is suitable based on factors such as semen analysis results, previous fertilization outcomes, or other individual circumstances. They will provide guidance on the best treatment approach for each specific case.
If you have further questions or concerns about ICSI or its suitability for your situation, it’s advisable to consult with our fertility specialist Dr. K D Nayar, or reproductive endocrinologist at Best IVF Centre, to evaluate your specific circumstances and provide personalized advice.