What is ICSI (Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection)?

ICSI (Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is an advanced form of IVF used when sperm-related issues prevent natural fertilization. It is especially helpful when sperm are present but have difficulty swimming or penetrating the egg due to poor motility, low count, or structural issues.

In a standard IVF cycle, eggs and sperm are combined in a petri dish, allowing fertilization to occur naturally. However, in cases where sperm quality is poor, this process may fail. ICSI addresses this challenge by directly injecting a single sperm into the cytoplasm of an egg, using highly specialized equipment under a microscope.

The ICSI Procedure: Step-by-Step The ICSI technique involves the following steps:

Preparation of Eggs and Sperm Eggs are retrieved and prepared for fertilization. Sperm is collected and specially processed to select the best quality.

Microscopic Injection Using a fine glass needle (micropipette), a single sperm is carefully injected into the center of the egg’s cytoplasm. The egg is gently held in place using a tiny suction pipette.

Fertilization and Monitoring The injected eggs are placed in a culture medium and monitored the next day to confirm successful fertilization.

All of this takes place using micromanipulators and high-resolution microscopes in a state-of-the-art embryology lab.

When is ICSI Recommended? ICSI is often planned in advance, especially when previous semen analysis has shown:

Low sperm count (Oligospermia)

Poor sperm motility (Asthenospermia)

Abnormal sperm shape (Teratozoospermia)

Previous fertilization failure with standard IVF

Sperm retrieved surgically from the testis (TESA, PESA)

Retrograde ejaculation or genetic factors affecting sperm function

However, the final decision to proceed with ICSI is usually confirmed by the embryologist on the day of egg retrieval after evaluating the actual sperm and egg quality.

Natural IVF vs. ICSI: A Balanced Approach At Rajni Fertility Centre, we aim to allow nature to take its course wherever possible. If sperm and egg quality appear suitable, conventional IVF may be attempted first. ICSI is chosen when it offers a clear advantage in achieving fertilization, based on expert embryologist assessment.

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