Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

Treatment Overview

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to treat sperm-related infertility problems. ICSI is used to enhance the fertilization phase of in vitro fertilization (IVF) by injecting a single sperm into a mature egg. The fertilized egg is then placed in a woman\’s uterus or fallopian tube .

What To Expect After Treatment

The shots, monitoring, and procedures for in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be emotionally and physically demanding of the mother. Superovulation with hormones requires regular blood tests, daily shots, and frequent monitoring by your doctor. Some of the shots can be quite painful.

These procedures are done on an outpatient basis. They require only a short recovery time. Your doctor may advise you to avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day.

Why It Is Done

ICSI is used to treat severe male infertility, as when little or no sperm are ejaculated in the semen. Immature sperm collected from the testicles usually can\’t move about and are more likely to fertilize an egg through ICSI.

ICSI can be used even if a couple\’s infertility is not related to a problem with sperm. Some couples choose to try ICSI after repeat in vitro fertilization has not worked.