Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

Introduction

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a revolutionary fertility treatment offering renewed hope for couples struggling with infertility. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of ICSI, covering its purpose, procedure, eligibility criteria, success rates, considerations, and influencing factors. By exploring this informative content, individuals can gain valuable insights and make informed decisions as they navigate the journey toward parenthood.

What is ICSI Treatment ?

ICSI treatment stands as an incredible breakthrough in fertility treatment. It is a specialized procedure where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg to aid fertilization. This precise technique is commonly incorporated into in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles and proves especially helpful for couples dealing with male factor infertility or other intricate fertility challenges.

Condition in which ICSI is performed:

ICSI is a popular and effective treatment for men who have trouble having babies. It’s suggested when:

  • When men have a low sperm count.
  • If there are issues with the movement (motility) of the sperm.
  • When there are problems with the development of sperm.
  • In cases where there are blockages preventing sperm ejaculation, such as after a vasectomy.
  • When couples want to increase the number of high-quality embryos obtained from a single egg retrieval.

Process of ICSI :

Ovarian Stimulation

The woman receives stimulation injections from the second day of her menstrual cycle to boost egg production. Doctors stimulate the ovaries with stimulating injections for about 8 to 12 days. This procedure will increase the chances for successful result.

Egg Retrieval

The doctor takes out eggs from the woman's ovaries. This procedure happens under anaesthesia or sedation, where mature eggs are collected via a minimally invasive procedure. This procedure occurs after completion (14-15 days) of stimulation.

Fertilization

An expert injects the best sperm into each mature egg using a microscope.

Embryo Development

After fertilization, the embryos are watched for 3 to 5 days to aim for good-quality ones.

Embryo Transfer

The chosen embryos are placed into the woman’s uterus in a quick 5-minute procedure.

Embryo Transfer

In embryo transfer, selected one or two high-quality embryos gets transfer into the woman's uterus. This is a quick and anaesthesia-free procedure which takes around 5-10 minutes.

Pregnancy Test

A test is done two weeks after placing the embryos to see if the woman is pregnant.

ICSI Benefits :

  • ICSI in IVF is advantageous as it enhances the fertilization rate, providing more fertilized eggs for future use.
  • This is particularly beneficial for couples dealing with male infertility, surpassing the effectiveness of standard methods like IUI.
  • ICSI is effective in obtaining a greater number of high-quality embryos from a single egg retrieval.
  • Even if there are no issues with sperm development, count, or motility, ICSI remains beneficial.
  • It’s also a suitable option for couples with previous IVF challenges or those seeking genetic testing.
  • Overall, ICSI improves the chances of successful fertilization, making it a valuable option for couples seeking fertility support.

Getting prepared for ICSI:

Before starting ICSI treatment, the fertility team gathers eggs and sperm. To retrieve eggs, medications stimulate the ovaries, and a needle is guided by Trans-vaginal ultrasound (TVS) to collect mature eggs, with mild anesthesia for patient comfort. The collected sperm is analyzed for mobility, volume, and quality. Sometimes, procedures like microscopic testicular sperm extraction or electroejaculation may be needed. The sperm can be frozen for later use in IVF.

Who can go for ICSI?

ICSI treatment provides optimism for couples dealing with male factor infertility, like issues with sperm count, motility, or morphology. It is also suggested for couples with past unsuccessful fertilization attempts in standard IVF cycles. However, since every situation is distinct, it’s vital to discuss with a fertility specialist to ascertain if ICSI aligns with your specific needs and those of your partner.

What Should You Keep in Mind While Going for ICSI ?

Getting ready for ICSI treatment requires thoughtful planning and consideration. This part will offer valuable advice to guide you through the process. It’s essential to recognize the emotional and financial commitment, follow medication instructions, uphold a healthy lifestyle, and seek support from your partner and loved ones. Open communication with your healthcare team will encourage a collaborative approach, enhancing the likelihood of success.

What are the Factors Affecting ICSI?

Several elements can impact the results of ICSI treatment. These factors encompass the woman’s age, overall health, egg and sperm quality, the expertise of the medical team, and the specific cause of infertility. Grasping these aspects can aid in making informed decisions and working collaboratively with your healthcare team.

Success Rate of ICSI:

The likelihood of a successful outcome in IVF can be based on several factors, including the woman’s age, the underlying cause of infertility, the quality of both eggs and sperm, and the expertise of the fertility clinic. Generally, success rates tend to decline as a woman’s age advances. With the introduction of advanced IVF techniques, the chances of achieving pregnancy per IVF cycle and embryo transfer are notably higher, reaching approximately 60% for women below 35 years of age.

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FAQ
ICSI, or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is a specialized fertility treatment where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg. This differs from traditional IVF, where eggs and sperm are mixed in a dish for fertilization.
ICSI is often recommended for couples dealing with male factor infertility, such as low sperm count or poor sperm quality. It may also be considered if previous IVF attempts have resulted in failed fertilization.
Success rates depend on various factors, including the woman’s age, the quality of eggs and sperm, and the expertise of the medical team. While ICSI shows promising outcomes, success can vary, and it’s essential to have realistic expectations based on individual circumstances.
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