ICSI Treatment (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) – A Path To Parenthood
For individuals and couples facing challenges with male fertility, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) offers a powerful and precise solution on the journey to parenthood.
ICSI is a specialised fertility treatment that is often used in cases where traditional IVF may not be successful due to low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or previous failed fertilisation.
With nearly three decades of fertility expertise, Fertility SA proudly offers ICSI fertility treatment to individuals and couples across Adelaide and beyond, using state-of-the-art techniques in a supportive, professional environment
ICSI Treatment
What Is An ICSI Treatment?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a laboratory technique where a single sperm is carefully injected directly into a mature egg. This differs from conventional IVF, where the sperm and egg are combined in a petri dish and left to fertilise. In an ICSI procedure, the embryologist selects a single healthy sperm and manually inserts it into the egg using a microneedle under a high-powered microscope.
The primary difference in IVF versus ICSI lies in how the egg is fertilised. ICSI allows for direct fertilisation, which is especially beneficial when sperm quality or quantity is compromised. This precision-based approach has revolutionised the treatment of male infertility, making biological parenthood possible for many individuals who previously had limited options.
How Does The ICSI Procedure Work?
ICSI treatment is a highly technical and delicate process performed by skilled embryologists in a controlled laboratory environment. It is typically part of a broader IVF treatment cycle and involves retrieving mature eggs from the female partner or donor, then fertilising them through ICSI.
ICSI Procedure Step-By-Step
Here’s a closer look at the ICSI process:
Step 1
Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval
The female partner undergoes hormone stimulation to encourage the production of multiple follicles. Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved via a trans-vaginal surgical procedure under light sedation.
Step 2
Sperm Collection & Preparation
A semen sample is collected from the male partner or sperm donor. If necessary, surgical sperm retrieval techniques can be used in cases of extremely low or absent sperm count. The sample is then processed to isolate the healthiest ICSI sperm for fertilisation.
Step 3
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
Using a fine glass needle, a single healthy sperm is injected directly into each mature egg. This step requires significant skill and precision and is carried out using high-magnification microscopes.
Step 4
Embryo Culture & Transfer
Fertilised eggs (embryos) are monitored via time-lapse monitoring in the lab for 5 days in the world-class Geri incubator which enables uninterrupted culture. The best-quality embryo is then transferred into the uterus, with the hope of implantation and pregnancy. Remaining embryos may be frozen for future use.
Who Can Benefit From ICSI Treatment?
ICSI is most often recommended for individuals or couples experiencing male factor infertility. This may include:
Low sperm count (oligospermia)
Poor sperm motility or morphology
Obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia
Previous failed fertilisation using standard IVF
The use of frozen or surgically retrieved sperm
Cases involving donor sperm or eggs
Unexplained infertility after multiple IVF cycles
IVF vs ICSI: Which Treatment Is Right For You?
When comparing IVF vs ICSI, the main distinction lies in how fertilisation is achieved. In traditional IVF, sperm are introduced to each egg, and fertilisation is left to occur naturally. This method works well when sperm health is within the normal range.
ICSI, on the other hand, is designed for situations where fertilisation is unlikely to occur without assistance, typically due to compromised sperm quality or prior failed IVF attempts.
So, how do you know which is right for you? The decision between IVF vs ICSI is made based on a thorough fertility assessment, including semen analysis and prior treatment history. At Fertility SA, our specialists provide clear, personalised recommendations based on your individual circumstances, always aiming to maximise your chances of success.
ICSI Success Rates & Factors Affecting Outcomes
The ICSI success rate depends on a range of factors, including the age and health of the egg provider, the quality of the sperm, and the clinic’s laboratory standards.
It's important to note that while ICSI increases fertilisation rates, it does not necessarily increase the chances of pregnancy or live birth over traditional IVF unless male factor infertility is involved.
Other factors that may impact ICSI percentage success include:
1
The number of mature eggs retrieved
2
Embryo quality
3
The presence of underlying medical conditions
4
The experience and skill of the embryology team
The same dedicated care, now powered by Genea.
Cost
What Is The Cost Of ICSI Treatment?
ICSI treatment cost can vary depending on the complexity of the case, whether sperm retrieval is required, and the inclusion of additional services such as genetic testing or embryo freezing.
As a guide, ICSI is typically performed as part of a standard IVF cycle, with an additional cost for the injection procedure itself. This fee may also be influenced by whether donor sperm is used and the number of embryos created or stored.
Why Choose Fertility SA For Your ICSI Journey?
When choosing a fertility clinic, it’s important to select one that offers not only advanced medical care but also a deeply compassionate and supportive environment. At Fertility SA, we pride ourselves on delivering both.
Our Adelaide-based team brings over 30 years of fertility expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and some of the most experienced embryologists and fertility doctors in South Australia. We stay at the forefront of assisted reproductive technologies while never losing sight of the emotional journey that comes with it.
Learn more about our full suite of fertility services.
FAQs About ICSI Treatments
What is the difference between IVF & ICSI?
IVF allows sperm to fertilise the egg in a lab dish naturally, while ICSI involves injecting a single sperm directly into the egg. ICSI is usually recommended for male infertility or previous failed fertilisation with IVF.
How successful is the ICSI treatment?
ICSI fertilisation rates vary based on egg quality, sperm health, and the age of the egg provider.
Is ICSI recommended for couples with unexplained infertility?
Yes, ICSI may be recommended when standard IVF fails or when fertilisation issues are suspected, even in the absence of diagnosed male factor infertility.
How much does an ICSI cycle typically cost?
ICSI costs are generally in addition to IVF fees and vary depending on individual treatment needs.
What are the risks associated with ICSI?
ICSI is considered safe however our fertility specialist will discuss any concerns based on your personal circumstances.