What is ICSI and How Does it Work?

What is Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection?
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a laboratory procedure where a single sperm is injected directly into each egg using a fine glass needle, bypassing the natural fertilization process that takes place in the woman's fallopian tubes.

The procedure is an advanced fertility treatment that helps you and your partner when you are experiencing male infertility issues.
 

Key Takeaways

1. ICSI offers a solution for male infertility issues.

2. There are six steps involved in the ICSI procedure.

3. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is one of the risks associated with ICSI.
 

How Does ICSI Work?

ICSI is a laboratory-based procedure that requires specialised equipment and highly trained personnel to perform. The following steps outline the ICSI process:
 

1. Ovarian Stimulation

Before starting the ICSI procedure, you will be given fertility drugs to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs. The eggs are monitored regularly using ultrasound and blood tests.
 

2. Egg Retrieval

Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved from your ovaries using a needle guided by ultrasound. This is a minor surgical procedure that is done under sedation.
 

3. Sperm Collection

Your partner will provide a semen sample, then processed in the laboratory to isolate the healthiest and most active sperm(s).
 

4. Sperm Injection

A single sperm is selected and immobilised using a tiny needle. The needle is then inserted through the outer membrane of the egg (the zona pellucida) and into the cytoplasm. The sperm is then released into the egg. 
 

5. Embryo Culture

The fertilised eggs (now called embryos) are cultured in the laboratory for 2-6 days, during which time they are monitored for cell division and growth.
 

6. Embryo Transfer

The best-quality embryo(s) are selected for transfer to your uterus, where they will hopefully implant and grow into a healthy pregnancy.
 

READ: What is IVF and How it Works
 

Why Would I Need ICSI?

ICSI is primarily used to treat male infertility and when you are experiencing:

- Low sperm count

- Poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology

- Unexplained infertility.

- Previous poor fertilization with IVF

- Endometriosis

- Anejaculation (inability to ejaculate)

READ: What You Need to Know About Infertility

Do you need to speak to a fertility specialist? Talk to a dedicated patient support specialist and get started on your family-building journey.

How successful is ICSI?

The success rates of ICSI depend on various factors, including your age, the quality of the embryos, and the clinic's experience and expertise.
 

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI is used in approximately 6 out of 10 IVF procedures.

The likelihood of conceiving successfully is the same with ICSI as with conventional IVF. It is predicted that fertilization occurs in 50% to 80% of ICSI efforts.
 

READ: What is IUI and How it Works

What Are the Risks Associated With ICSI?

There are potential risks associated with ICSI. These can include:
 

- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): is a rare but serious complication that can occur when the ovaries are overstimulated by fertility drugs.

- Multiple pregnancies: Increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

- Birth defects and genetic abnormalities: May be more common in babies conceived using ICSI than in those conceived naturally or through traditional IVF.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a safe and effective procedure that can help you and your partner achieve your dream of parenthood.

Are you looking for fertility treatment options? Wondering where to start? Talk to a dedicated patient support specialist to get you started on your fertility journey.