ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is an advanced fertility treatment that is often used in combination with IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) to help couples facing severe male infertility issues. It is a highly effective technique where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg to achieve fertilization. ICSI can be the solution for men with low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology, significantly improving their chances of successful fertilization.
ICSI is a type of IVF where a single sperm is carefully selected and directly injected into the egg using a microscopic needle. This technique bypasses the natural fertilization process, making it possible to achieve pregnancy even when sperm quality is compromised. ICSI is particularly useful when traditional IVF methods are not successful due to male factor infertility.
ICSI is especially beneficial for men facing:
Similar to IVF, the woman undergoes ovarian stimulation with fertility medications to produce multiple eggs.
Once the eggs mature, they are retrieved from the ovaries in a minor surgical procedure under mild sedation.
The male partner provides a sperm sample, which is then processed to select the healthiest sperm. In cases of azoospermia, sperm is directly retrieved from the testes or epididymis.
A single sperm is selected and injected directly into an egg under a microscope. This bypasses the natural fertilization process and gives the sperm the best chance to fertilize the egg.
The fertilised eggs (embryos) are cultured for a few days to ensure proper development. The best-quality embryos are selected for transfer.
One or more healthy embryos are transferred into the woman’s uterus, and pregnancy is monitored through blood tests and ultrasounds.
IVF success is multifactorial and strongly influenced by factors such as age, egg and sperm quality, uterine receptivity, and overall reproductive health. In earlier years, even among younger women, success rates rarely exceeded 30–40%. However, with advancements in technology, lab protocols, and personalized treatment strategies, success rates today can reach as high as 60–80% in selected cases — especially when managed by an experienced fertility specialist.
At our centre, Dr. Shikha Mukhija brings over 15 years of experience and a consistently high track record in fertility care, offering individualized treatment plans aligned with global standards to maximize the chances of pregnancy.
Advanced ART procedures are performed at an ICMR-registered ART Level 2 centre by Dr. Shikha Mukhija, in collaboration with the centre’s team.
Enhancing Implantation Precision
Laser-assisted hatching involves creating a tiny opening in the outer shell (zona pellucida) of the embryo using a precise laser beam. This helps facilitate implantation in the uterus, especially in cases of repeated IVF failure, advanced maternal age, or thick zona. It is a safe and effective technique to improve embryo implantation potential.
Transferring at the Right Time
Blastocyst transfer involves growing embryos in the lab for 5–6 days (instead of the usual 3), allowing selection of the most viable embryo for transfer. This improves implantation rates and reduces the chances of multiple pregnancies. Ideal for patients with good embryo development in early IVF cycles.
ICSI itself does not cause pain, as it is performed in a laboratory under a microscope. However, egg retrieval (the procedure to collect eggs) is done under sedation and may cause some temporary discomfort.
In IVF, sperm is mixed with eggs in a lab dish and left to fertilize naturally. In ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. ICSI is used when sperm quality is low or when fertilization issues occur.
The risks of ICSI are similar to those of IVF, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancies, and, in rare cases, genetic issues passed through sperm. However, genetic screening can minimize risks.
Yes, ICSI is often used with donor sperm to increase the chances of fertilization when male fertility is a concern.
The ICSI process takes about 4–6 weeks, from ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer. After the procedure, a pregnancy test is typically scheduled 10–14 days later.
At Mukhija Infertility and Gynaec Clinic, Dr. Mukhija leads a compassionate and dedicated team that strives to create a nurturing environment for couples.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
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