Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is very similar to conventional IVF in that gametes (eggs and sperm) are collected from each partner, the difference being in the method of achieving fertilisation.
ICSI refers to the laboratory procedure where a single sperm is picked up with a fine glass needle and is injected directly into each egg . It is carried out in the laboratory by experienced embryologists using highly specialised equipment. Candidates to potentially benefit from ICSI include:
➥ Low sperm count
➥ Abnormal sperm or low sperm motility
➥ Sperm retrieved surgically from the epididymis (MESA/PESA) or the testes
➥ Sperm retrieved from urine or following electro-ejaculation
➥ High levels of antibodies in the semen
➥ Previous fertilisation failure using conventional IVF