Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Explained: Candidates, Benefits, & More

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a fertility treatment that can help couples with a low sperm count or other male infertility issues achieve their dreams of starting a family. ICSI is just one of many fertility treatments available at the Pacific Fertility Center to help couples overcome their fertility challenges. In this overview, we focus on which couples may benefit from ICSI. If you live in or around Los Angeles, CA and would like to find out if you are a good candidate for ICSI, please contact our fertility specialists today.

What Is Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection?

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection, commonly called ICSI, is a treatment used to assist with sperm-related infertility issues, specifically those cases in which there is little sperm found in ejaculated semen. The ICSI procedure is performed with in vitro fertilization (IVF). With ICSI treatment, sperm is collected so that it may be transferred into an egg. Eggs are retrieved after a series of fertility injections. These injections help produce multiple eggs in the woman.

Once eggs are retrieved, the collected sperm is injected into the egg. A small glass tub is used to ensure only one sperm is inserted into one egg. The eggs are checked the next day to see if they have fertilized. Fertilized eggs are left to mature for several days after which point one or more embryos will be inserted into the woman's uterus. Any remaining good quality embryos may be frozen for later use.

Candidates for ICSI

ICSI can help couples that have struggled with infertility, especially when infertility issues are male related. Ideal candidates for ICSI include men with severe infertility issues, including a low sperm count. Other candidates include men who have sperm motility issues, problems with sperm development, or a blockage that prevents sperm from being ejaculated, such as a vasectomy.

Men who do not have issues with sperm count, sperm development, or sperm motility may still be candidates for ICSI. Couples that have not been successful with previous in vitro fertilization attempts may benefit from ICSI. Additionally, couples that wish to test for certain genetic problems often make good candidates for ICSI treatment.

Exploring Fertility Treatment Options

Infertility is complex and can be caused by a variety of factors in either partner. Fortunately, there are multiple fertility treatments available, in addition to intracytoplasmic sperm injection and in vitro fertilization, that can help couples realize their dream of parenthood. Fertility medications, ovulation induction, semen analysis, sperm donation, egg donation, or embryo donation may be helpful for couples who have had difficulty conceiving. In other circumstances, surrogacy may be a viable option. Our physicians will work closely with you to determine the best course of action for your fertility treatment.

Learn More about Your Fertility Treatment Options

If you have questions about intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or would like to learn more about other advanced fertility treatment options, you are encouraged to contact our fertility treatment specialists today. Our staff welcomes any questions you may have.