The Science Behind ICSI: How Does It Work?

01 Nov 2023

If you and your partner are on the journey to parenthood but have encountered challenges along the way, you’re not alone. Many couples face difficulties conceiving naturally, and modern science offers a lifeline through various assisted reproductive techniques. One such technique that is offered by our Fertility Clinic in Thailand is Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), a crucial component of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). This approach enables individuals with sperm that are either unhealthy or lack the capability to penetrate the outer eggshell to directly access the eggs. In our latest article, we’ll take a look at the science behind ICSI, exploring its intricacies and how it can help couples overcome infertility.

How Does IVF and ICSI Work?

Let’s start with the basic concepts before getting into the finer points. IVF, or In Vitro Fertilization, is a medical process used to help couples who are having difficulty conceiving naturally. Standard IVF involves the fertilization of eggs and sperm in a laboratory dish, which results in the development of embryos. These embryos are cultivated before being implanted into the woman’s uterus in the hopes of a successful pregnancy.

ICSI, on the other hand, follows the same initial steps as standard IVF, with a crucial difference in the fertilization process. Instead of allowing multiple sperm to naturally fertilize an egg in a dish, ICSI involves the precise selection of a single healthy sperm. This chosen sperm is then delicately injected directly into a mature egg. This method bypasses issues related to sperm motility (the ability of sperm to move efficiently) and cervix complications, offering a higher chance of successful fertilization, especially for couples who have experienced difficulties with standard IVF or severe infertility issues.

The ICSI Procedure at Our Fertility Clinic in Thailand

Now, let’s break down the ICSI process step by step:

ICSI offers a ray of hope for couples dealing with infertility, particularly those dealing with sperm-related difficulties. In reality, it is the most successful therapy for male infertility in the contemporary age, not simply another treatment option.

ICSI may be recommended under several circumstances: If you have a low sperm count, if your sperm have abnormal shapes, if you’ve had unsuccessful rounds of IVF, if you’re using frozen sperm, or if surgical sperm collection is required. ICSI often plays a pivotal role within the context of IVF treatments. Here, a carefully selected, healthy sperm sample is meticulously injected directly into the cytoplasm of a mature egg. The primary goal of the ICSI process is to facilitate fertilization by utilizing a robust sperm sample, and it excels in this regard. Approximately 90% of all ICSI treatments at our Fertility Clinic in Thailand culminate in successful egg fertilization.

The ICSI procedure unfolds as follows: the male patient provides a sperm sample, which is then placed in a specimen container. This sample undergoes rigorous testing and analysis to identify the healthiest sperm specimens. The chosen sperm is subsequently employed in the IVF treatment.

ICSI is a meticulous procedure that entails the direct injection of sperm into a mature oocyte (an egg cell) during In Vitro Fertilization, targeting the cytoplasm. This procedure is a lifeline for men grappling with fertility issues, as it enhances the chances of fertilizing an oocyte significantly. After the retrieval of the sperm, a meticulous lab selection process is initiated to identify the most viable sperm.

The ICSI procedure, which involves ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and sperm collection, plays a pivotal role in securing the procedure’s success and enhancing the likelihood of achieving successful fertilization.

The success of fertilization in ICSI hinges not only on the quality of the sperm but also on the oocyte’s ability to undergo fertilization. If fertilization is successful, the oocytes mature into embryos. These embryos undergo a rigorous quality assessment following the procedure. Additionally, the embryos are subject to highly meticulous scrutiny for fertility preservation. Throughout the fertilization process, both before and after implantation, the embryos undergo comprehensive screening to detect and correct any acquired chromosomal abnormalities.

The selection process in ICSI is nothing short of paramount, and it demands the expertise of a highly skilled embryologist. This intensive procedure culminates in the development of blastocysts (a cluster of dividing cells made by a fertilized egg), which are subsequently transferred back to the patient for the best chance of a successful pregnancy.

What is the Overall Benefit of ICSI?

The primary advantage of incorporating ICSI into the IVF process lies in its ability to boost the fertilization rate, potentially resulting in a greater pool of fertilized eggs ready for transfer or cryopreservation. Moreover, for couples grappling with male factor infertility, ICSI can heighten the prospects of successful fertilization even in situations where conventional insemination methods, like IUI, may have previously posed challenges.

ICSI is an innovative scientific advancement that offers hope to couples struggling with infertility. By understanding the intricate process of ICSI, you are better prepared for the journey ahead. Each step, from ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer, is a testament to the dedication of medical professionals in helping you achieve your dream of parenthood. While the road may be challenging, the possibilities that ICSI brings are truly remarkable, offering a renewed sense of hope for those on this path to creating a family.

If you have any more questions regarding ICSI then get in touch with the team at the Bangkok Central Clinic IVF & Wellness. We are a highly respected Fertility Clinic in Thailand with a proven track record of getting results for our clients.