ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) – Definition, Benefits and Applications
1. Definition
ICSI, or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is a fertility procedure used as part of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology). This method involves directly inserting one sperm into an egg to support successful fertilisation. It is most commonly used when there are male fertility issues, such as low sperm count, poor sperm movement or abnormal sperm shape.
ICSI is done in a laboratory by trained embryologists and has helped many couples with male fertility problems have biological children.
2. Key Takeaways
- ICSI is an assisted reproductive technique commonly performed as part of IVF treatment.
- It involves injecting one sperm directly into an egg.
- Mainly used when the male partner has fertility issues.
- Can also be helpful in cases where previous IVF attempts have failed.
- Offers hope to couples who may not be able to conceive naturally.
3. Why ICSI Is Important for Fertility Treatment
- Male Factor Infertility
Many couples face difficulties conceiving due to problems with sperm quality or quantity. Conditions such as low sperm count (oligospermia), poor motility (asthenozoospermia) or abnormal sperm shape (teratozoospermia) can prevent sperm from naturally fertilising the egg. ICSI helps overcome these issues by choosing a healthy-looking sperm and injecting it directly into the egg, bypassing the need for it to swim and penetrate on its own.
- Helps in Sperm Retrieval Cases
In some men, sperm cannot be found in the ejaculate due to a blockage or non-production. In such cases, sperm can be retrieved directly from the testicles using procedures like TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) or PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration). ICSI is then used to fertilise the egg with the retrieved sperm.
- Useful After Failed IVF Cycles
If previous IVF cycles have not resulted in fertilisation, ICSI is often the next recommended step. It gives the sperm the best possible chance to fertilise the egg.
- Benefits of ICSI
ICSI is especially helpful when the male partner’s sperm has trouble fertilising the egg.
It allows fertilisation even when sperm count is very low or the sperm cannot move or attach to the egg on their own.
It also works well with frozen sperm samples and improves fertilisation chances after failed IVF attempts.
Sperm retrieved surgically due to blockages or testicular issues can also be used successfully in ICSI.
- Applications of ICSI
ICSI is commonly used to treat male infertility caused by low sperm count, poor motility or abnormal sperm shape.
It’s also useful in cases where sperm is collected directly from the testicles following a vasectomy or in men with azoospermia.
In some cases of unexplained infertility or when genetic testing is required after fertilisation, ICSI provides better control and accuracy.
It can also support assisted fertilisation with donor eggs or sperm.
4. Example/Use Case
A 34-year-old man is found to have a very low sperm count and poor motility during a fertility assessment. The healthcare provider recommends ICSI within the IVF procedure to improve fertilisation outcomes. Sperm is collected and one healthy sperm is selected and injected into each egg from his partner. Multiple embryos form, and one is selected and placed into the uterus. The couple successfully conceives.
5. FAQs
Q1: How is ICSI different from regular IVF?
In traditional IVF, a semen sample is placed in a dish containing multiple eggs to allow natural fertilisation. Unlike standard methods, ICSI improves the chances of fertilisation in cases of low sperm quality by injecting a single sperm directly inside the egg.
Q2: Is ICSI painful for the male partner?
Generally not, as sperm is most often collected through normal ejaculation. If sperm retrieval from the testicle is needed, it’s done under local anaesthetic and is not painful.
Q3: Can ICSI fix all types of male infertility?
ICSI helps with many sperm-related problems, but if there is no sperm production at all, further tests or donor sperm may be needed.
Q4: Does ICSI increase the chance of birth defects?
Studies show that ICSI is generally safe, though there may be a slightly increased risk of genetic issues in some cases. This is why some clinics may recommend genetic counselling.
Q5: Is ICSI successful on the first try?
Success rates vary depending on the couple’s overall fertility health. In many cases, ICSI increases the chance of fertilisation and pregnancy, especially when male infertility is the main issue.
6. Call to Action
If you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success, and tests reveal male fertility issues, ask your fertility specialist about ICSI. This advanced yet common technique could give you the best chance of achieving a healthy pregnancy and growing your family.
7. Relevant Terms
IVF
Sperm motility
Azoospermia
Oligospermia
Teratozoospermia
Embryologist
Sperm retrieval
TESA
PESA
Fertilisation
Sperm count
Semen analysis
Assisted reproduction
Sperm morphology
Testicular biopsy
