If ICSI is planned in conjunction with an IVF cycle, it will be performed prior to incubation of the embryos. Using ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into the egg cytoplasm. The injection is performed using a microscopic needle and an instrument known as a micromanipulator.

The sperm may be obtained from the ejaculate, or in severe male factor infertility, directly from the reproductive tract (MESA) or the testicles (TESA). Once the sperm is inserted into the egg a high percentage of eggs become fertilized. Sperm injection does not guarantee that fertilization will occur. Fertilization rate is related to the skills of the embryologist, as well as sperm and oocytes problems that are not always apparent. ICSI is especially effective in cases of moderate to severe male infertility because the chances of fertilization are greatly improved. At the Center for Women’s medicine, the fertilization rate is one of the highest in the nation. 

Overview of Conditions Where ICSI is Often Employed:

• Male Infertility- Low sperm count
• Abnormally shaped sperm
• Male or Female antisperm antibodies
• Frozen sperm obtained surgically
• Prior IVF failure
• Prior poor fertilization
• Small number of retrieved eggs
• Advanced female age