The journey of parenthood is not easy for everyone. For many people, there are various challenges that they have to face because of infertility issues. Millions of people are struggling with infertility problems across the globe and it is the major barrier in the path of becoming parents. However, the advancements in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) offer hope for those who are facing infertility issues. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is one of the great techniques for fertility treatment. It is considered as the specialized form of IVF (In Vitro Fertilization).

Understanding ICSI

One of the highly specialized techniques and an advanced form of IVF is known as ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). In this process, an injection of a single sperm is directly injected into the egg to facilitate fertilization. This process is done under a microscope by using advanced micromanipulation tools. ICSI treatment is highly beneficial for couples who are dealing with male infertility factors such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology.

During the ICSI process, cutting-edge reproductive technologies are used for culturing and incubating the cells of the human body. The embryo development is monitored by the embryologist after the fertilization is done. After proper evaluation, the healthy embryos are selected for transfer to the woman’s uterus.

ICSI Advancements

Advanced fertility treatments such as ICSI have not only enhanced success rates but also consist of more accessible and versatile treatment options.

  • Improved Sperm Selection Techniques – There are two techniques used for selecting sperm named Physiological ICSI (PICSI) and Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm (IMSI). In the PICSI process, a specialized coated dish with hyaluronic acid is used to track the natural environment of the female reproductive tract. The sperm bind to the hyaluronic acid which will increase the successful fertilization outcomes. In the IMSI process, a high-magnification microscope is used to assess the sperm to check out any morphological abnormalities. This helps the embryologist to select the most viable and healthiest sperm for injection.
  • Genetic Screening – To check any genetic abnormalities before implantation, PGT is done by the embryologist. It is important for couples who are at risk of passing on genetic disorders to the baby.
  • Sperm Retrieval Techniques – A minimally invasive surgical procedure called Micro-TESE is used to extract sperm directly from the testicles in obstructive azoospermia conditions. It helps to increase the chances of successful fertilization.
  • Time-Lapse Imaging – By using this technology, it becomes easy for embryologists to check and properly monitor the development of embryos in real time. The embryologist can select the most healthy embryos for transfer which can improve the implantation rates and reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies.
  • Cryopreservation Techniques – Vitrification is one of the rapid freezing techniques. It will help to improve the survival rates of frozen embryos.

Role of ICSI Centres

In advanced fertility treatment, the ICSI centres play an important role and provide good quality care to patients to increase successful outcomes.

  • Advanced Diagnostic Services: To properly evaluate and check the underlying causes of infertility, ICSI centres are developed. For example – hormonal assessments, semen analysis, ovarian reserve testing, and genetic screening.
  • Patient-Centric Care: ICSI centres use a patient-centric approach to offer advanced technological services to patients. They offer personalized care, counseling support, and other services.
  • Success Rates and Outcomes: A combination of individualized care, advanced technology, and skilled professionals increase the success rate of ICSI centres. A high number of treatment options are available in the ICSI centres.