When Is Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Used for Fertility Treatment?

By Daniel Kort, MD

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a specialized fertility treatment that has transformed the possibilities for couples facing challenges in conceiving. This advanced procedure is often used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to enhance the chances of fertilization. At Neway Fertility, we provide ICSI as part of our comprehensive fertility care, tailoring treatments to meet the unique needs of each patient.

What is Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)?

ICSI is a procedure where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg to achieve fertilization. This technique bypasses many of the natural barriers that might prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. ICSI is performed under a microscope with precision tools, ensuring the egg and sperm are handled carefully during the process.

When is ICSI Used?

ICSI is not required for all IVF cases, but it is particularly beneficial for individuals or couples dealing with specific fertility issues. Below are the most common situations where ICSI is recommended:

1. Male Factor Infertility

ICSI is a cornerstone treatment for male infertility. It is often used in cases where:

• Sperm count is low (oligospermia).
• Sperm have poor motility (asthenospermia), meaning they struggle to swim effectively.
• There are abnormalities in sperm shape (teratospermia), which can impact their ability to fertilize an egg.

Sperm are retrieved surgically, such as through testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA), when there is no sperm in the ejaculate (azoospermia).

By injecting a single sperm directly into the egg, ICSI overcomes these challenges and significantly increases the likelihood of fertilization. ICSI is used in over 85% of IVF cycles involving male factor infertility, making it one of the most common treatments for couples experiencing challenges with sperm quality or motility.

2. Previous IVF Failures

For couples who have undergone IVF without successful fertilization, ICSI may provide a solution. If eggs and sperm failed to fertilize in prior cycles, ICSI can address potential barriers by ensuring the sperm reaches and fertilizes the egg.

3. Unexplained Infertility

In cases where the cause of infertility is unclear after thorough testing, ICSI can be used as a proactive step to improve fertilization rates.

4. Fertilization with Donor Eggs or Sperm

When donor sperm or eggs are used, ICSI is often employed to maximize the chances of successful fertilization.

5. Cryopreserved Eggs or Sperm

When using previously frozen eggs or sperm, ICSI is frequently recommended to account for any potential changes in the viability of the reproductive cells after thawing.

How Does ICSI Work?

The ICSI procedure involves several steps:

• Egg Retrieval: Eggs are collected from the ovaries during the IVF process.
• Sperm Collection: Sperm is obtained from a semen sample or through surgical extraction methods if necessary.
• Sperm Injection: Under a microscope, a single sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of each egg using a fine needle.
• Fertilization Monitoring: The eggs are monitored to confirm fertilization and the development of embryos.

Every fertility journey is unique, and determining whether ICSI is the right option depends on your individual circumstances. At Neway Fertility, our experienced specialists work closely with patients to identify the most effective treatment strategies, offering personalized care every step of the way.

Contact Neway Fertility

If you’re exploring fertility treatment options, Neway Fertility is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about ICSI and how it can increase your chances of successful conception. Together, we’ll take the next step toward growing your family.