Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Treatment in Delhi

What is ICSI?

ICSI stands for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection. Developed by Gianpierro Palermo at Brussels University, the technique is popularly used in IVF processes to introduce a single sperm cell into the cytoplasm of an egg. The technique aims to help prepare gametes for the obtention of embryos that will later be transferred to a uterus ecosystem. 

When is ICSI suggested for a couple trying to conceive?

There are various factors that make a fertility expert recommend ICSI for conception. Here are a few:

• Male Infertility issues including low sperm count, motility, morphology (OATS)
• Case of Azoospermia (Testicular Sperms)
• Thick Zona (Egg Shell being produced by the ovaries)
• Previous failures of IVF cycles. 

What is the difference between IVF and ICSI?

ICSI is a type of in vitro fertilisation method where only a single sperm cell is used per egg. A micromanipulator machine is used to conduct this procedure and it is often done with the intention to fertilize the egg. IVF on the other hand focuses on allowing eggs to be fertilised after the sperms are added to its ecosystem. 

How does a sperm normally fertilize an egg?

The sperm travels through the fallopian tubes, where an already produced ova (eggs) gets fertilised. Once the fertilisation stage has been achieved, the ova undergoes two processes: capacitation, where its outer layer is changed, and hyperactivation, which changes the way the sperm’s tail moves. 

To enter the egg, the sperm has to break through a group of cells known as the cumulus oophorus. The group of cells acts as guard, surrounding the egg. The sperm dissolves these cells using an enzyme present in it known as acrosin. Once a sperm has penetrated an egg, this membrane changes, and becomes impenetrable to other sperm. It then fuses with the DNA of the egg to form the zygote.

How is the ICSI procedure carried out

The ICSI treatment in Delhi at our Advanced Fertility Clinic is carried out by experienced embryologists. We use state-of-the-art ICSI micromanipulator machine. Our process starts with the identification of patients: eggs and sperm. Then, in separate droplets, sperm cells and eggs collected are placed onto the same culture plate in the ICSI machine. 

The egg is stabilized by the larger needle and the sperm is injected by the smaller needle under the microscope with 400 times magnification. Once the sperm has been introduced inside the egg, our experts will keep a constant eye to ensure the process takes place without any hassles. 

What happens after the ICSI Procedure?

Once fertilisation has been completed, embryos formed after the ICSI procedure are cultured in the lab for 2-5 days. Once we are certain that the fertilised egg and the uterus is ready, we will transfer the embryo into the uterus and keep a close watch to ensure the process is a success.

How can we improve ICSI results?

With ICSI, you are in control. Here are things we keep in mind for better results when you are planning to undergo the ICSI process:

• By choosing sperms that have a good DNA fragmentation index.
• Double ejaculate in case of very poor motility.
• Good sperm selection and ICSI technique by the embryologist.
• Using optimal stimulation protocol and giving good quality eggs to the embryologists.
• Good preparation techniques of the endometrium for best pregnancy results.

What is IMSI?

IMSI is intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperms. Through this method, high-potential sperms are selected under 6000 times magnification. The process is supposed to produce better-quality embryos and pregnancy outcomes. Our experts carry out this sperm selection method with utmost care and dedication to ensure higher chances of successful pregnancy. 

What is the incidence of congenital malformations with ICSI?

The incidence of congenital malformations with natural conception is about 1-2%, whereas with ICSI is about 2-3%. It increases in patients with extreme oligospermia and azoospermia cases. Genetic screening is conducted particularly for men who have a history of severe OATS and azoospermia. PGS is conducted for those with a medical history of recorded genetic defects or hereditary diseases. 

Is ICSI better than IVF?

ICSI is recommended for patients where male infertility factors are observed, and other previous fertilisation attempts have not been successful. It is not recommended in all IVF cases as it does not improve pregnancy outcomes when used in non-indicated cases. In case our best ICSI treatment in India experts find you suitable for either of the processes, we will have clear conversations with you, highlighting everything about the process so that you are able to make informed decisions. 

How can I ensure my body is ready for ICSI?

A healthy body is paramount to ensuring you have a successful ICSI process. It is highly recommended to maintain a healthy weight. Being obese or underweight makes it difficult for our experts to monitor reproductive organs and their functions closely. Moreover, excess weight can put additional stress on the body, creating an environment where it can be difficult for the implanted embryo to survive. 

Focus on optimising your sperm health by indulging in simple practices like wearing boxes instead of tight underwear and shifting to a more balanced diet with elements and ingredients that can benefit your reproductive organs. Additionally, consider quitting smoking and chewing tobacco, as these have long-term side effects on the body. 

Smoking affects the sperm quality in men and egg quality in women. Instead, consider taking supplements alongside having a healthy exercise routine that aims at keeping your mobility and well-being in check. In case you have a history of miscarriage or have any other specific health condition that can impact your chances of getting pregnant, we encourage you to be transparent about it with our specialists so that they are able to personalise your experience at our clinic and are able to deliver positive results. 

Lastly, have patience and be open with your embryologists about the process. At Advance Fertility Clinic, the best ICSI treatment in Delhi, we aim to provide the high success rates and happiness you have been waiting for.