What is ICSI and How Can It Help?
Male fertility issues can manifest in a number of ways. Thankfully, when sperm motility, sperm morphology, or sperm count is an issue, ICSI may be used to increase the odds of fertilization.
What is ICSI?
ICSI is short for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. ICSI may be used in tandem with IVF treatment. With traditional IVF protocols, eggs are harvested and are fertilized in a laboratory setting. To do this, the mature eggs are placed in a dish with sperm and fertilization takes place as it does naturally. ICSI takes a more direct approach. During ICSI, a single sperm is injected into the middle of an egg. Then, the egg is watched for development and signs of fertilization. This process may be used for a number of reasons including:
- Low sperm count
- Poor sperm motility
- Poor sperm quality
- Low fertilization rates during previous IVF cycles
How does ICSI help during fertility treatment?
In order to become pregnant, sperm must penetrate and fertilize an egg. If the sperm is unable to make the journey to the egg, or is unable to penetrate the egg, fertilization cannot take place. ICSI directly addresses these issues by delivering the sperm directly into the egg. This process can significantly improve fertilization rates and the overall likelihood of a healthy pregnancy. The success rate of fertilization is as high as 80 percent when ICSI is used. Ultimately, the chance at a healthy pregnancy is determined by the health of both the egg and the sperm. The higher the quality, the better the chance for a healthy baby.
Is ICSI right for me?
It is important to speak with your fertility care provider about ICSI and its use during your fertility treatment. While there are no rigid lines for the use of ICSI, some medical issues can benefit more from this treatment than others. Your medical history will determine if ICSI is right for you.
Receive personalized information on ICSI and how it may be used as a part of your treatment plan by contacting the New Hope Fertility Center team today. Please click the link below to enter your information and New Hope will contact you, or simply call 212-517-7676. Thank you.
