INTRACYTOPLASMIC SPERM INJECTION ICSI

What is ICSI?

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a useful part of the IVF process. A single sperm is injected into the center of an egg (cytoplasm) by the embryologist (a technician who specializes in egg fertilization).

After the sperm has been injected into the egg, fertilization will be observed the following day. If the embryo continues to mature and grow normally, it will be transferred back into the uterus several days later.

ICSI is recommended especially when there is a sperm factor – a low sperm count or a low sperm motility (sperm movement). ICSI is especially recommended in cases where the sperm shape (morphology) is abnormal and is therefore less likely that the sperm will penetrate the egg.

Will ICSI improve your chances for pregnancy?

ICSI will improve the chances for fertilization but after the egg is fertilized, it will be the quality of the embryo itself which determines the likelihood of success.

Is there anything the husband can do to make ICSI more successful?

Remember that only one sperm is injected into one egg. It is not necessary to abstain for a long periods of time because so few sperm are needed.