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ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)

ICSI, or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is an advanced fertility technique used as part of IVF to treat severe male infertility. In this procedure, a single healthy sperm is directly injected into a mature egg to assist fertilization. ICSI greatly improves the chances of fertilization when sperm quality or quantity is low or when previous IVF cycles have failed.

It is one of the most effective treatments for couples where natural fertilization is difficult due to male factor issues.

What Does ICSI Involve?

ICSI is performed in a laboratory as part of the IVF process:

  • Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval: The woman undergoes ovarian stimulation, and mature eggs are collected through a minor procedure.
  • Sperm Collection & Preparation: A sperm sample is collected and processed to isolate the healthiest sperm.
  • Sperm Injection: A skilled embryologist injects a single sperm into each mature egg using a fine needle under a microscope.
  • Embryo Culture & Transfer: Fertilized embryos are monitored for 3–5 days and the best quality embryo is transferred into the uterus.

What Does ICSI Involve?

  • Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval: The woman undergoes ovarian stimulation, and mature eggs are collected through a minor procedure.
  • Sperm Collection & Preparation: A sperm sample is collected and processed to isolate the healthiest sperm.
  • Sperm Injection: A skilled embryologist injects a single sperm into each mature egg using a fine needle under a microscope.
  • Embryo Culture & Transfer: Fertilized embryos are monitored for 3–5 days and the best quality embryo is transferred into the uterus.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ICSI

In standard IVF, sperm are placed near the egg and allowed to fertilize naturally. In ICSI, one sperm is directly injected into the egg, which is ideal for severe male infertility.

No. The ICSI procedure is done in the lab and does not involve any pain for the patient. Egg retrieval (part of IVF) is done under sedation or anesthesia.

ICSI improves fertilization rates, but overall pregnancy success depends on embryo quality, uterine health, and other factors. It is especially effective for couples with male factor infertility.

Yes. ICSI is often used when eggs or sperm have been frozen, especially when sperm motility is affected during the thawing process.