Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection(ICSI)

Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a cutting-edge technique used within in vitro fertilization (IVF) to address male infertility. This procedure involves the direct injection of a single sperm into an egg to facilitate fertilization. ICSI is particularly useful for individuals with severe sperm-related issues, such as low sperm count or poor sperm quality, and aims to enhance the chances of successful conception by overcoming barriers that may prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg naturally.

Treatment Procedure

Pre-Procedure Preparations

The process begins with ovarian stimulation to induce the production of multiple eggs. Hormonal medications are administered over several days to mature the eggs. Once mature, eggs are retrieved through a minimally invasive procedure using a thin needle guided by ultrasound. On the same day, sperm is collected from the male partner or a donor. If sperm quality is compromised, methods such as testicular sperm extraction may be used.

ICSI Procedure

In the laboratory, each egg is held in place using a pipette. A single sperm is selected and immobilized before being injected directly into the egg’s cytoplasm with a fine needle. This precise technique ensures that the sperm is placed inside the egg, bypassing natural barriers to fertilization.

Fertilization Monitoring

After the sperm is injected, the fertilized egg (embryo) is monitored for several days to assess development. The embryo should begin dividing and growing, forming a blastocyst by the fifth or sixth day. This phase is critical for determining the embryo’s viability and potential for successful implantation.

Embryo Transfer

Once the embryo reaches an optimal stage of development, it is transferred into the uterus using a catheter. This procedure is guided by ultrasound to ensure precise placement. After the transfer, a waiting period of about two weeks is recommended before conducting a pregnancy test to confirm if implantation and pregnancy have occurred.

Why Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection?

ICSI is specifically designed for individuals facing challenges with male infertility. It is most beneficial in cases where traditional IVF methods have not succeeded due to factors such as

  • Low Sperm Count : Insufficient sperm available for fertilization.
  • Poor Sperm Quality : Sperm with reduced motility or abnormal morphology
  • Sperm Delivery Issues : Problems with sperm delivery due to anatomical blockages or retrograde ejaculation

ICSI is also recommended when using previously frozen eggs or sperm, or for women over 35, where egg quality and fertilization success may be more variable. By directly injecting sperm into the egg, it enhances the likelihood of successful fertilization and embryo development, offering hope for individuals who might otherwise struggle to conceive.

At Pratiksha, we consider this technique a vital option for those who have not succeeded with traditional fertility treatments, providing a pathway to achieve pregnancy and fulfil the dream of parenthood.