Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Can Assist Male Factor Infertility
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) at our Omaha, NE, practice is a technique used during in vitro fertilization (IVF). During the process, a single sperm is directly injected into an egg to induce fertilization rather than combining multiple sperm all at once. At Heartland Center for Reproductive Medicine, this procedure is beneficial for patients who have experienced a failed first round of IVF or for patients with severe male factor fertility issues. During your initial consultation, one of our fertility specialists will help you determine if this treatment is suitable for your infertility concerns.
Candidacy for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
This procedure is recommended for couples who wish to test the embryo for genetic diseases and disorders. It is also suggested for patients who have experienced failed fertilization in a previous IVF cycle, or have been diagnosed with male factor infertility issues such as:
- Low sperm count
- Low fertilizing capacity
- Poor sperm mobility
- Poor sperm morphology
- Dysfunctional ejaculation
Although risks are possible, having your procedure performed by our team of experts will dramatically reduce your risk for complications and increase your chances for pregnancy by 70 – 80%.
The Steps Involved in Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
During ICSI, a fertility specialist will use modern technology and advanced techniques to select a single sperm with a delicate needle. The specialist will then use the needle to insert the sperm directly into the center of the mature egg to increase chances for fertilization and a successful pregnancy.
- Egg and Sperm Retrieval: Eggs are retrieved during a minimally invasive surgical procedure, with the healthiest and most mature eggs chosen to undergo ICSI. Sperm is collected from a donor bank or from the partner via ejaculation or a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The sperm is then carefully processed to remove any impurities to help enhance fertilization.
- Mobilizing the Egg: Once the egg and sperm are adequately prepared, the mature egg is carefully held in place using a specialized pipette.
- Mobilizing the Sperm: A small, hollow needle is then used to immobilize and pick up a single sperm.
- Needle Insertion: The specialist will insert the needle through the outer shell of the egg so the sperm can be released into the cytoplasm (center of the egg). The needle is then removed very carefully so as not to disrupt fertilization.
- Monitoring the Egg: Over the next 24 hours, the egg is monitored for evidence of fertilization. Healthy embryos will then be transferred to the uterus.
What Are the Risks?
Although risks are possible, having your procedure performed by our team of experts will dramatically reduce your risk for complications and increase your chances for pregnancy by 70 – 80%. Issues related to ICSI can include:
- Egg damage during retrieval and mobilization
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome during egg retrieval
- A multiple pregnancy if more than one embryo is implanted
Improve Your Chances for Pregnancy
If you have been diagnosed with male factor infertility issues, you and your partner may benefit from intracytoplasmic sperm injection in order to expand your family. Contact our practice today to meet with one of our fertility specialists.
