What is ICSI?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is an advanced fertility treatment that involves injecting a single, healthy sperm directly into a mature egg. This groundbreaking technique, performed as part of the IVF fertility treatment, significantly enhances fertilization rates for individuals or couples facing infertility challenges.
Whether dealing with male-factor infertility, previous IVF failures, or unexplained infertility, ICSI provides a targeted solution that increases the chances of a successful pregnancy.
How Does the ICSI Process Work?
ICSI is a carefully orchestrated procedure requiring precision and expertise. Here is what to expect during your ICSI infertility treatment:
How ICSI is done?
- Initial Consultation:
Discuss your medical history, fertility challenges, and treatment goals with our experts. - Ovarian Stimulation and Monitoring:
Medications stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, with ultrasounds and blood tests tracking progress. - Egg Retrieval:
Once mature, these eggs are retrieved using a minimally invasive procedure where a fine needle is guided to the ovaries to collect the eggs. - Sperm Collection and Preparation:
Sperm is either collected fresh or prepared from a frozen sample. The healthiest, most motile sperm are selected using a viscous solution that slows them down for better assessment. - Injection of Sperm into the Egg:
Using a high-powered microscope and specialized equipment, a single sperm is immobilized and aspirated into a glass pipette. The pipette is then gently inserted into the egg, where the sperm is deposited for fertilization. This is a reproductive technology for fertilizing egg with sperm. - Fertilization and Embryo Development:
Once fertilized, the egg is monitored for 18-20 hours to confirm successful fertilization. The resulting embryo(s) are cultured for a few days before being transferred to the uterus or frozen for future use. - Successful Pregnancy:
Congratulations on being a parent!
ICSI Procedure Steps
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Procedure
ICSI Sperm & Egg Collection
Mature eggs are retrieved from the ovaries after hormonal stimulation, and sperm is collected from a semen sample or extracted surgically if needed.
Sperm Injection into Eggs
In a laboratory setting, a single healthy sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of each mature egg using a fine micro-needle.
Embryo Development
The fertilized eggs are cultured and monitored as they develop into embryos over the next few days.
Embryo Transfer or Cryopreservation
Healthy embryos are either transferred to the uterus for potential implantation or frozen for future use.
Who Can Benefit from ICSI Fertility Treatment?
ICSI is ideal for those facing specific fertility challenges, including:
- Male-Factor Infertility: Low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal morphology.
- Unexplained Infertility: When standard IVF fails to result in fertilization.
- Sperm Retrieval Procedures: When sperm is obtained through surgical means, such as testicular sperm extraction (TESE).
- Egg Fertilization Challenges: Cases where eggs previously failed to fertilize with standard IVF.
Advantages of ICSI Fertility Treatment
- Overcomes Male Infertility: By directly injecting sperm into the egg, ICSI bypasses common male infertility barriers.
- Improved Fertilization Rates: Especially for couples experiencing failed fertilization in prior IVF cycles.
- Flexible Sperm Sources: Utilizes fresh, frozen, or surgically retrieved sperm.
- Inclusive Solution: Effective for a wide range of fertility issues, making it accessible to more families.
Why Choose Nahal Fertility Clinic for Your ICSI Journey?
Frequently Asked Questions About ICSI
How Does ICSI Work?
ICSI involves injecting a single healthy sperm directly into a mature egg using a fine pipette under microscopic guidance.
What Is the Success Rate of ICSI?
Success rates vary based on factors such as age and overall health but can range from 60%-80% for fertilization.
Does ICSI Increase the Chance of Twins?
ICSI itself does not increase the likelihood of twins, but transferring multiple embryos during IVF may raise the chance of a multiple pregnancy.
How Much Does ICSI Cost in Canada?
ICSI is typically included in the IVF fertility package, with additional costs ranging between $1,500 and $2,000. At Nahal fertility clinic we offer a wide range of privately funded and government-funded fertility options, do not hesitate and call us to discuss personalized financing options!
What Are the Risks of ICSI?
ICSI is mostly a safe and secure treatment. Though rare, risks include abnormal fertilization or potential damage to the egg during injection. Our clinic ensures the highest standards of care to minimize these risks.