Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

A precise laboratory technique to overcome male factor infertility

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a highly specialized assisted reproduction procedure that enables couples with a significant male infertility factor to achieve pregnancy. In this technique, a single sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of a mature egg, which significantly reduces the number of sperm needed for successful fertilization.

Unlike conventional IVF and intrauterine insemination, which require thousands or millions of sperm, ICSI can succeed even with a minimal number of viable sperm.

The procedure includes the following stages:

  1. Hormonal Stimulation (Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation – COHS):
    Similar to standard IVF, ICSI requires the retrieval of mature eggs. To achieve this, the patient undergoes controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, during which hormonal medications stimulate the development of multiple follicles in the ovaries.

  2. Monitoring and Follicular Puncture:
    The growth of follicles is monitored through ultrasound and hormone tests. When they reach appropriate maturity, a hormone injection (usually Pregnyl) is administered to trigger ovulation. Oocyte retrieval is performed 34–36 hours later.

  3. Sperm Retrieval:
    On the day of the egg retrieval, the partner provides a semen sample. If necessary, previously frozen sperm can be used, or microsurgical sperm retrieval procedures (PESA, MESA, TESA, TEFNA) may be performed depending on the type of male infertility factor.

  4. Fertilization via ICSI:
    Prepared sperm are examined under a microscope and selected based on morphology and motility. Each sperm is then injected directly into a single egg using a fine micropipette.

  5. Culturing and Embryo Transfer:
    Embryo development is monitored daily for up to six days. The highest-quality embryos are selected for transfer into the uterus. Any additional good-quality embryos can be frozen for future transfer.

ICSI is suitable for:

ICSI is an innovative and effective technique that significantly increases the chances of fertilization and successful treatment of infertility in couples with male factor infertility. At New Life, the procedure is performed by experienced embryologists in a state-of-the-art laboratory, with an individualized approach to each couple.