ICSI is a laboratory procedure performed as part of IVF. Using a specialized micropipette, a single healthy sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of a mature egg. This technique overcomes issues that prevent sperm from penetrating the egg’s outer layer (zona pellucida) in natural conception or traditional IVF.
Cases where no clear cause for infertility is identified.
Female Factors
Eggs with a thick zona pellucida or low egg yield in IVF.
Frozen Egg Use
When frozen eggs are thawed for fertilization.
PGT Preparation
ICSI ensures controlled fertilization for embryos undergoing genetic testing.
How is ICSI Performed?
Sperm Collection and Preparation
Sperm is typically collected via ejaculation. In cases of azoospermia, surgical retrieval methods like TESA (testicular sperm aspiration) or MESA (micro epididymal sperm aspiration) are used. The sample is washed and prepared to isolate the healthiest sperm.
Egg Retrieval
Mature eggs are retrieved from the ovaries following ovarian stimulation.
ICSI Procedure
Using a high-powered microscope, the embryologist identifies a single healthy sperm. A micropipette injects the sperm directly into the egg’s cytoplasm. The injected eggs are monitored for signs of fertilization.
Embryo Development
Fertilized eggs grow in the lab for 3-5 days before transfer or freezing.
Embryo Transfer
Healthy embryos are transferred to the uterus to establish pregnancy.
Benefits of ICSI
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) improves fertilization rates by directly injecting a single healthy sperm into an egg, making it an effective solution for severe male infertility and increasing the chances of successful IVF.
Overcomes Male Infertility
Provides a solution for severe male factor infertility cases.
Increases Fertilization Rates
Improves the likelihood of fertilization in challenging cases.
Supports Advanced Treatments
It is ideal for embryos undergoing PGT or when using frozen eggs.
Avoids IVF Cycle Repetition
Reduces the need for multiple IVF cycles by maximizing fertilization success.
Customized Approach
Allows split fertilization techniques, combining ICSI with traditional IVF to optimize outcomes.
Family Planning Confidence
Couples can plan with greater certainty by knowing their fertilization rates are optimized.
ICSI vs. Traditional IVF and IUI
Traditional IVF: Involves mixing many sperm with eggs in a lab dish, relying on natural fertilization. ICSI: Directly injects a single sperm into the egg, bypassing barriers to fertilization. IUI: Places prepared sperm directly into the uterus but requires sufficient sperm motility and count for success.
Advanced Sperm Retrieval Techniques for ICSI
For men who cannot provide sperm through ejaculation, advanced surgical techniques include: TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration): Sperm is extracted directly from the testicles using a fine needle. MESA (Microepididymal Sperm Aspiration): Sperm is collected from the epididymis. It is often used for men with obstructive azoospermia. TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction): A surgical biopsy removes tissue from the testicles to retrieve sperm. Micro-TESE: A microscopic approach to identify sperm in men with non-obstructive azoospermia.
Risks of ICSI
Egg Damage
A small percentage of eggs may be damaged during the injection process.
Genetic Risks
Slightly higher risks of genetic abnormalities, often linked to the cause of male infertility rather than the procedure.
Fertilization Failure
Rarely, eggs may fail to fertilize even with ICSI.
Embryo Development Issues
Some embryos may not develop to the stage needed for transfer or freezing.
Sam and Alicia’s Success
Sam and Alicia faced years of infertility due to Sam’s low sperm count. After opting for ICSI at Sakalli IVF, they achieved fertilization success on their first attempt. “ICSI gave us a chance we never thought possible,” Alicia shares. “Now, we’re proud parents to a beautiful baby boy.”
Why Choose ICSI at Sakalli IVF?
Localized Expertise
Providing ICSI services in Northern Cyprus with a reputation for excellence.
Advanced Technology
Our state-of-the-art lab uses the latest equipment for precise sperm injection and embryo culture.
Experienced Embryologists
Skilled professionals with years of experience ensure high success rates.
Personalized Care
Each case is carefully evaluated to recommend the most effective treatment plan.
Comprehensive Services
We combine ICSI with advanced techniques like PGT and embryo freezing to optimize outcomes.
World-Class Laboratory Environment
Maintained under strict conditions to support optimal fertilization and embryo development.
Frequently Asked Questions
ICSI fertilizes 50%-80% of eggs, with pregnancy rates comparable to traditional IVF.
Yes, while there are slight risks of egg damage and genetic concerns, these are minimal and comparable to IVF.
Absolutely. ICSI is often recommended for fertilizing thawed eggs.
Surgical retrieval methods like TESA or MESA can be used to collect sperm directly from the testicles or epididymis.
Unlike traditional IVF, where sperm and eggs are mixed in a lab dish, ICSI involves direct injection of a single sperm into the egg.
The risk is slightly higher than natural conception but still low (1.5%-3%) and often related to underlying infertility factors.
Yes, ICSI can optimize fertilization even when only a few eggs are retrieved.
At Sakalli IVF, success rates meet or exceed global averages, ensuring world-class care.
The procedure typically fits within the 2-3 week IVF cycle, with ICSI occurring shortly after egg retrieval.
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Parenthood?
If you’re facing male infertility or have had previous IVF challenges, ICSI at Sakalli IVF could be your solution. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our fertility experts and start your journey with confidence.
