ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a fertilization technique in which a single, carefully selected sperm is injected directly into each egg, the preferred technique for male factor infertility or when fertilisation has failed in a previous cycle.
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ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a fertilization technique in which a single, carefully selected sperm is injected directly into each egg, the preferred technique for male factor infertility or when fertilisation has failed in a previous cycle.
OVERVIEW
What is ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection)?
ICSI is the procedure whereby one sperm that is selected because of its form and movement is introduced into the egg rather than in conventional in vitro fertilization where many sperms are put around the egg and one will be able to fertilize it. ICSI is particularly useful in cases where there is poor quality or number of sperms, sperms have been extracted through TESA/PESA procedures, or in cases where there were unsuccessful previous IVF cycles. To the patient, ICSI procedure is just like IVF procedure with the difference being only in the fertilization process.
OVERVIEW
Step-by-Step ICSI Process
Ten stages across roughly six to eight weeks. Some happen in the laboratory without you present.
Evaluation & Diagnostics
A thorough evaluation including medical history, fertility diagnostics and lifestyle assessment. Tests such as hormonal blood work, ovarian reserve testing, pelvic ultrasound and semen analysis help guide treatment planning.
Preparation
Supplements or medications may be recommended to optimise egg and/or sperm quality and overall reproductive health.
Ovarian Stimulation
Hormone injections are administered daily for 10–12 days to stimulate the ovaries. Progress is monitored through scans and blood tests.
Trigger
When eggs reach the desired size, a precisely timed injection completes maturation and prepares them for retrieval.
Egg Retrieval (Ovum Pickup)
Eggs are collected under general anaesthesia via a short 20–30 minute transvaginal ultrasound-guided procedure. Most women return home the same day.
Fertilisation
In IVF, approximately 100,000 sperm are placed around each egg. In ICSI, a single selected sperm is injected directly into the egg. The choice is based on sperm quality and clinical factors.
Embryo Culture
Fertilised eggs are cultured in the lab while embryologists monitor growth. A decision is made about timing of transfer - usually Day 3 or Day 5 after fertilisation.
Embryo Transfer
One or two of the healthiest embryos are gently placed into the uterus using a catheter. The procedure is usually painless and requires no anaesthesia.
Post-Transfer & Aftercare
Progesterone medications are continued to support the uterine lining and enhance implantation chances. Normal daily activities can be resumed.
Pregnancy Test
A blood test is done approximately 12–14 days after embryo transfer to confirm pregnancy and guide further care.
For Whom
Is ICSI right for you?
ICSI is recommended for couples where fertilisation is likely to be difficult with conventional IVF. It’s especially relevant if:
Important to know
Before You Choose ICSI
When ICSI is not needed
- Semen parameters are adequate and fertilisation is expected to happen normally
- There is no history of fertilisation failure
- Egg numbers are good and conventional IVF has a fair chance
- It is being offered routinely rather than for a stated clinical reason
ICSI does not improve pregnancy rates where sperm are not the limiting factor. If it is recommended, ask what the specific reason is.
What ICSI does and does not change
- No additional visits, injections or anaesthesia for you
- Fertilisation rates improve where sperm quality is the obstacle
- Embryo quality still depends on the egg and the sperm's genetic material
- Pregnancy rates depend on the embryo, not the injection technique
- The decision can change on the day if the sample differs from expectation
Find out whether ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is your best next step
The right treatment depends on your diagnosis. One evaluation consultation is usually enough to know.
- Honest advice on your treatment options, based on your own tests
- Transparent pricing before you commit to a cycle
- 24×7 doctor-supervised medical helpline through your journey