Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a specialized technique used in fertility treatments to fertilize an egg with a single optimally chosen sperm. It is often used in conjunction with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to enhance the chances of successful fertilization.

ICSI allows for the injection of a single, healthy sperm directly into an egg, making it an ideal option for couples struggling with male infertility factors or those who have had difficulty achieving fertilization in prior IVF cycles. It has become the standard of care in most clinics and offers the highest fertilization rates.

At Perch Fertility, our provider, Dr. Meir Olcha will guide you through the risks and benefits of all the options available to you. He is passionate about helping his patients make educated and informed decisions throughout their fertility journey.

ICSI is a highly advanced fertility treatment where a single sperm is selected and injected directly into the center of an egg to facilitate fertilization. With the conventional IVF method, thousands of sperm are placed together with the egg, hoping that one of the sperm will penetrate the egg naturally for successful fertilization.

ICSI does not leave this process of fertilization to chance. It bypasses potential barriers like low sperm count, poor motility, or unknown sperm abnormalities to increase the chance that fertilization occurs. This method is especially helpful in cases where male infertility is a significant concern or when previous IVF attempts have not been successful. However, it may be used routinely in most cases to improve overall outcomes.

The ICSI process is integrated into an IVF cycle, enhancing the chances of successful fertilization. The following steps are involved in the ICSI process.

• A sperm sample is collected. 
• An embryologist then studies the sample under a high-powered microscope to identify and select a healthy sperm for injection.
• The selected sperm is then injected directly into the center of each egg using a fine needle.
• After the injection, the eggs are monitored in the lab to confirm successful fertilization.
• Once fertilized, the resulting embryos are observed for development before being transferred to the uterus.

ICSI is also often used when frozen sperm or eggs are used for IVF since it can ensure precise fertilization.

At Perch Fertility, our fertility expert, Dr. Meir Olcha recommends ICSI for patients who may be experiencing:

• Severe Male Infertility: If you have a low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology, ICSI can significantly improve the chances of fertilization.
• Sperm Abnormalities: When sperm shape or structure (morphology) is abnormal, it can impair the sperm’s ability to penetrate the egg, which ICSI bypasses.
• Previous IVF Failure: If conventional IVF did not result in fertilization, ICSI offers a targeted solution.
• Unexplained Infertility: This is when a couple is unable to conceive and undergo fertility tests that show no clear issues with either partner's reproductive health.
• Embryo Genetic Testing: When embryos need to have DNA sampled to test for genetic abnormalities. 
• Fertility Preservation: ICSI is necessary when using frozen eggs or sperm, ensuring that each precious egg has the best chance of fertilization.

While success rates can vary, ICSI generally offers higher fertilization rates (>80%) compared to conventional IVF in cases where male factor infertility is the primary issue.

Success rates typically depend on factors like egg and sperm quality, maternal age, and overall health. However, ICSI may offer better results in cases where conventional fertilization is a problem due to male infertility.

At Perch Fertility, we combine ICSI with the latest reproductive technology in sperm selection to give you the best chance of achieving a healthy pregnancy.

While ICSI is a safe and effective procedure, like any medical intervention, it comes with some risks:

• Egg Damage: The process of injecting the sperm into the egg can occasionally cause damage to the egg.
• Fertilization Failure: Although rare, fertilization may not occur even after ICSI is performed.

At Perch Fertility, we are committed to offering advanced fertility treatments like ICSI to our patients. Our team’s expertise in male infertility and reproductive technologies ensures that you receive the highest level of care.

From our state-of-the-art laboratory to our compassionate, patient-focused approach, we’re committed to supporting you on your path to parenthood. Contact Perch Fertility today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how ICSI can improve your chances of conception.

To schedule a consultation with our fertility specialist, please call us at 201-775-0003 or request an appointment online. We are here to answer your questions and provide you with the information and support you need.