IntraCytoplasmic Sperm Injection(ICSI)

What is IntraCytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)?

IntraCytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is an advanced form of IVF where a single healthy sperm is directly injected into a mature egg to facilitate fertilization. It is primarily used in cases of severe male infertility or when previous IVF cycles have failed.

How ICSI Differs from IVF

• IVF: Relies on natural fertilization of egg by sperm in a lab dish.
• ICSI: Involves direct injection of sperm into the egg, bypassing natural fertilization barriers.

Key Advantage

ICSI significantly increases the chances of successful fertilization, especially when male infertility is a contributing factor.

When is ICSI Recommended?

ICSI is ideal in the following cases:

1. Male Infertility

• Low sperm count (Oligospermia)
• Poor sperm motility (Asthenozoospermia)
• Abnormal sperm shape (Teratozoospermia)
• Obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia

2. Failed IVF Cycles

No fertilization despite normal eggs and sperm.

3. Use of Frozen Gametes

Cryopreserved sperm or eggs often benefit from ICSI for better fertilization.

4. Unexplained Infertility

ICSI is used when the reason for infertility is unknown.

5. Genetic Testing

Used alongside Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) for better embryo selection.

6. Fertility Preservation

For cancer patients or those using stored sperm samples.

Step-by-Step ICSI Procedure

1. Ovarian Stimulation

Hormonal injections are used to produce multiple eggs.

2. Egg Retrieval

Mature eggs are collected via a minor procedure called follicular aspiration.

3. Sperm Collection

Sperm is either ejaculated or surgically retrieved and prepared for injection.

4. Sperm Injection

A single sperm is injected directly into each mature egg using a micro-needle.

5. Embryo Development

Fertilized eggs are cultured for 3–5 days to develop into embryos.

6. Embryo Transfer

A healthy embryo is transferred into the uterus under ultrasound guidance.

7. Pregnancy Test

A blood test is performed two weeks later to confirm pregnancy.

ICSI Success Rates

Success depends on age, medical history, and egg/sperm quality.

Average Rates:

• Fertilization Rate: 70%–80%
• Pregnancy Rate: 30%–60%

Factors Influencing Success:

• Age of female partner (higher success under 35)
• Quality of eggs and sperm
• Experience of fertility clinic
• Presence of medical conditions (e.g., PCOS, endometriosis)

Benefits of ICSI

• Effective for severe male infertility
• Higher fertilization rates
• Suitable for frozen or surgically retrieved sperm
• Ideal for IVF failures
• Enables preimplantation genetic testing
• Requires only one healthy sperm per egg
• Widely available and accessible

Risks and Complications

1. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

Caused by hormone injections; can lead to bloating and pain.

2. Egg Retrieval Risks

Minimal risk of infection or bleeding.

3. Fertilization Failure

May still occur if egg or sperm quality is poor.

4. Embryo Development Issues

Not all embryos develop normally.

5. Genetic Risks

Slightly increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities.

6. Multiple Pregnancies

Higher if multiple embryos are transferred.

7. Emotional and Physical Stress

Requires mental and physical preparedness.

Healtour Solutions Minimizes Risks By:

• Partnering with trusted fertility clinics
• Offering preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)
• Providing personalized and continuous support

Cost of ICSI in India

Average Cost per Cycle: ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000

Additional Costs May Include:

• Medications
• Embryo freezing
• Genetic testing
• Follow-up consultations

Why Choose India for ICSI?

Affordable Treatment

Significantly lower costs than the USA, UK, or Australia.

Top Fertility Clinics

Access to expert embryologists and world-class labs.

Medical Tourism Facilities

Combine treatment with cultural exploration.

Why Choose Healtour Solutions?

• Partnerships with India’s top fertility centers
• Customized treatment packages
• End-to-end care: from consultation to post-treatment
• Affordable, transparent pricing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between IVF and ICSI?

IVF: Fertilization occurs naturally in the lab.
ICSI: A single sperm is directly injected into the egg.

2. Is ICSI the only option for male infertility?

No, other methods like IUI or surgical sperm retrieval are available, but ICSI is the most effective in severe cases.

3. How long does the ICSI process take?

The full cycle typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.

4. Can ICSI work if the sperm count is zero?

Yes, sperm can be surgically retrieved for use in ICSI.

5. What are the success rates for ICSI?

Fertilization rates range between 70–80%, and pregnancy rates vary from 30–60%, depending on individual factors.