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Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

What is ICSI?

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, commonly known as ICSI, is an advanced method performed as a part of IVF. ICSI increases the chance of successful fertilization. In conventional IVF, sperm and eggs are put together in petri dishes where the sperm fertilize the eggs on its own. While in ICSI procedure, the sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of egg hence, the increased rates of successful fertilization. This procedure was introduced to help couples, who are facing severe male factor infertility issues or have failed at IVF previously, to achieve successful pregnancy. Unlike IVF, in ICSI the best sperm is selected to achieve desired results.

ICSI Procedure | Australian Concept

ICSI Cycle

Embarking on an Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) cycle at Australian Concept is a structured process designed to optimize the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each stage within an ICSI cycle:

icsi cycle how it works

ICSI Process and Stages

Embarking on an ICSI journey at Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center involves a series of carefully orchestrated stages, each designed to address male infertility challenges and optimize the chances of successful fertilization. Here is a detailed breakdown of the ICSI process:

icsi steps how icsi work

1. Initial Consultation:

In-Depth Evaluation: Initiate the ICSI process with an extensive consultation, where our fertility specialists conduct a thorough assessment of the male partner’s reproductive health.
Male Factor Infertility: Identify specific male infertility factors, such as low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal morphology, through comprehensive testing.

2. Ovarian Stimulation:

If the ICSI procedure is combined with IVF, the female partner may undergo ovarian stimulation using fertility medications to encourage the production of multiple eggs.

3. Egg Retrieval:

Minor Surgical Procedure: In cases of ovarian stimulation, the female partner undergoes a minor surgical procedure to retrieve mature eggs.
Synchronized Timing: Ensure synchronization of egg retrieval with the preparation of the male partner’s sperm for ICSI.

4. Sperm Collection:

Semen Sample Collection: The male partner provides a semen sample, which is meticulously collected and evaluated.
Specialized Sperm Preparation: The collected sperm undergoes specialized techniques, including washing and selecting the most motile and viable sperm for the ICSI procedure.

5. Microscopic Sperm Injection:

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: Utilizing a powerful microscope, a single, high-quality sperm is selected and injected directly into the cytoplasm of a mature egg.
Precision and Expertise: Skilled embryologists ensure the precise injection of sperm, enhancing the likelihood of successful fertilization.

6. Embryo Culture:

Cultivation in Incubators: The injected eggs develop into embryos within advanced incubators, providing optimal conditions for growth.
Continuous Monitoring: Embryos are closely monitored for quality and development, and the healthiest candidates are selected for potential transfer.

7. Embryo Transfer:

In some cases, ICSI may be combined with traditional IVF, and the selected embryos are gently transferred into the uterus.
Minimally Invasive Procedure: The embryo transfer is a minimally invasive procedure guided by ultrasound for precision.

8. Holistic Care:

Emotional and Holistic Support: Throughout the ICSI process, experience compassionate care that addresses both the emotional and physical aspects of your fertility journey.
Lifestyle Guidance: Receive guidance on lifestyle choices that can positively impact your fertility and overall well-being.

9. Pregnancy Testing:

Comprehensive Pregnancy Testing: Undergo thorough pregnancy testing to confirm the success of the ICSI procedure.
Ultrasound Monitoring: Positive results lead to continued monitoring through ultrasounds to ensure the progression of a healthy pregnancy.

10. Procedure Support:

Guidance and Counseling: Receive post-procedure support, including guidance on post-transfer care, lifestyle choices, and emotional well-being.
Addressing Concerns: Our dedicated team is readily available to address any concerns or questions during the post-procedure period.

Why would I need ICSI?

Being an advanced treatment for infertility, ICSI treatment is recommended under particular circumstances. It is most often recommended to couples struggling with male factor infertility and is considered an effective treatment for it. ICSI may be recommended if any of the following circumstances exist:

  • Low sperm count
  • Poor sperm morphology (abnormally shaped sperm)
  • Poor sperm motility (abnormal sperm movement)
  • Failed fertilization attempts at conventional IVF
  • Unsuccessful conventional IVF treatment
  • Poor ovarian reserve
  • Retrograde ejaculation
  • Frozen sperm is being used
  • Frozen oocytes are used
  • If sperm is retrieved surgically
  • In case the couple needs to undergo embryo testing for some genetic condition i.e., PGD or PGS

ICSI is often recommended when the couple is going through severe infertility problems which cannot be treated successfully using other treatment methods. However, usually this technique is used to cope with male factor infertility.

Will ICSI work?

Through ICSI treatment, Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center has helped numerous infertile couples in realizing their dream of parenthood. A large number of couples, after receiving treatment at our IVF centers at Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi, have conceived and delivered healthy babies.

ICSI is quite helpful in successful fertilization when compared to conventional IVF. The successful fertilization rates of ICSI are exceptional as per the record, eight out of ten eggs are fertilized successfully through ICSI. While the success rate of ICSI and IVF are more or less same, the effectiveness of ICSI has been proved so many times in treating infertility. In addition to this, the success rate of ICSI treatment depends upon numerous factors such as:

  • Quality of sperm
  • Maternal age
  • Egg activation
  • Egg damage

ICSI has given great hope to couples struggling to conceive due to male factor infertility and it is for this reason that today, ICSI is being used vastly in medical centers around the world.

Increase your chance of Successful ICSI Treatment

In addition to other factors, following can help you increase your chance of successful fertilization:

  • Reduce stress
  • Quit smoking/alcohol
  • Supplements as recommended by doctor
  • Adequate levels of vitamin D
  • Patience and Positive behavior
  • Maintaining a healthy weight as BMI can impact IVF success rates

Is ICSI Safe?

With every medical treatment comes a factor of risk, side effects and complications. Overall ICSI treatment is safe however, there are certain risks associated with it including the risk of birth defects which is slightly greater than that in normal pregnancy although it is rare. Besides, the risk of chromosome abnormality is also high as compared to normal conception such as learning disabilities, increased risk of miscarriage, etc. As per the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, ICSI is effective and safe treatment for infertility which can improve the chance of successful fertilization in couples with poor fertilization results in previous IVF cycles.

ICSI Risk Factor

Why ICSI is better than IVF?

ICSI yields better results in cases of male factor infertility. Research reveals that ICSI is as effective as IVF when there is no male factor infertility. Also, ICSI procedure allows the embryologist to select the best sperm. ICSI is considered as a right choice when the male partner has any sperm related problems. Moreover, ICSI has a clear advantage in successful fertilization over IVF. The rate of successful fertilization is significantly higher in ICSI treatment than that of conventional IVF.

Difference between IVF & ICSI

IVF

ICSI

What is the Cost & Duration of ICSI?

The procedure of ICSI is divided into several stages which takes place over a span of four to six weeks. Hence, single ICSI cycle takes about four to six weeks for its completion.

The cost of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) in Pakistan, as such information can vary based on the clinic, location, and individual circumstances. Medical procedure costs can change over time, and it’s essential to contact specific fertility clinics in Pakistan directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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