How does ICSI differ to IVF?

How does ICSI differ to IVF?

Navigating the world of fertility treatment can be overwhelming, especially when faced with a multitude of abbreviations and terminologies. One such instance is distinguishing between IVF and ICSI, two widely used procedures in the realm of assisted reproduction. Let's delve into the disparities between IVF and ICSI and explore when ICSI might be recommended over conventional IVF.

Understanding IVF:
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) involves placing carefully prepared sperm together with eggs in a culture medium within a laboratory dish. Here, the sperm naturally penetrates the egg, leading to fertilization. Overnight, the fertilized eggs develop into embryos, which are then monitored by an embryologist. After three to five days, the best embryos are selected for transfer into the woman's uterus, aiming to achieve pregnancy.

Exploring ICSI:
Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) takes the process one step further by addressing specific fertility challenges. In this procedure, an embryologist individually selects a single sperm, delicately capturing it with a fine glass needle, and then injects it directly into each egg. The fertilized egg, or embryo, is subsequently transferred into the woman's womb in a manner similar to a standard IVF cycle.

Similarities between IVF and ICSI:
While ICSI serves as a more specialized version of IVF, both procedures involve the collection of eggs and sperm from either the partners or donors. On the day of egg retrieval, the embryologist inseminates the eggs, and the following day, the fertilized eggs are selected and monitored in an incubator for up to five days. The most viable embryos are then chosen for transfer into the woman's uterus, with the hope of successful implantation and pregnancy.

Key Differences between IVF and ICSI:
ICSI sets itself apart from IVF by bypassing the natural stage where the sperm would penetrate the egg. Instead, each egg receives a direct injection of a single sperm, addressing specific male fertility issues.

When is ICSI Recommended?
ICSI is a beneficial option when the sperm is unlikely to fertilize an egg naturally. Some situations where ICSI may be recommended include:

• Very low sperm count
• Poor sperm motility (movement)
• High rate of abnormal sperm
• Sperm retrieval from the epididymis or testicles
• Presence of high levels of antibodies in the semen
• Previous IVF attempts with failed fertilization
• Use of frozen sperm

The Benefits of ICSI:
ICSI extends hope to men facing challenges with sperm quality, quantity, or accessibility. It allows individuals with low sperm count (oligospermia), no sperm in their semen (azoospermia) but have had successful surgical retrieval of sperm, or high numbers of abnormal sperm to have the chance of having their own genetic child with their partner. Furthermore, ICSI opens doors for patients using frozen sperm or those who experienced previous IVF cycles with low fertilization rates, increasing the odds of achieving a successful pregnancy.

Our dedicated fertility consultants are committed to offering personalized guidance based on individual fertility investigations. We take pride in our world-class success rates for both IVF and ICSI, offering highly competitive fixed-price packages to support your fertility journey.