Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a technique used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) in which a single sperm is injected into the woman's egg, increasing the chances of pregnancy.

Once the eggs have been obtained for IVF, a mature egg is held in a specialized pipette. A very delicate, sharp needle immobilizes and picks up a single sperm. The needle is very gently inserted through the shell of the egg, and into the cytoplasm of the egg where the sperm is injected, after which the needle is carefully removed. The eggs are checked the following day for evidence of fertilization.

When fertilization has occurred, the regular IVF procedure continues, with the fertilized egg being placed inside the woman’s uterus. Finally, the woman is closely monitored for signs of pregnancy, and blood, urine and ultrasound tests are performed to determine if implantation and pregnancy have occurred.