ICSI in Dnipro

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a modern way to become parents if there are health issues. IVF comes in two types: using natural mechanisms or with the involvement of an embryologist and artificial sperm selection. This method is also known as ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). Today, we’ll discuss why ICSI is used in IVF, whether it increases the chances of successful conception, and which option to choose: ICSI fertilization or IVF?

When to Do IVF (IVF) ICSI

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is one of the stages of in vitro fertilization, where the embryologist selects the sperm with the best potential and injects it into the egg. This increases the chances of successful IVF. For this procedure, the doctor uses a microscope with a special micromanipulator. After fertilization, the cultured embryo is transferred into the uterus.

It’s important to note that ICSI is a stage of IVF, not a separate fertilization method. Since there are several methods of IVF, IVF with ICSI is prescribed in some forms of infertility, when intracytoplasmic sperm injection is the best way to achieve conception:

Insufficient sperm count in male biological material
Poor sperm motility
Presence of abnormally shaped sex cells or antisperm antibodies in sperm
Use of sex cells after prior freezing
Egg cell deficiency in women
Egg maturation in laboratory conditions
Anomalies in the structure of female sex cells
Ineffective IVF programs using the "natural fertilization mechanism," where sperm fertilizes the egg without the assistance of an embryologist, but in laboratory conditions.

In our center, embryologists and reproductive specialists have extensive experience performing IVF with ICSI in the Dnipropetrovsk region. The happy patients who have achieved the desired pregnancy and became parents are a testament to this.

If you're interested in the cost of the ICSI procedure, the prices for services are provided at the end of the article.

How to Prepare for the ICSI Procedure

Preparation for ICSI is necessary for both partners and aims to increase the chances of success. We’ve prepared basic recommendations for men and women, but you can find more detailed information about how to prepare for IVF with ICSI from your attending specialist.

For Men:

Tests indicating the presence/absence of sexually transmitted infections
Hormone level tests
Spermogram

For Women:

Tests for sexually transmitted infections
Cytological examination of the cervix
Hormone tests
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs

Both partners must also undergo tests for Rh factor and genetic compatibility.

Lifestyle Adjustments Before IVF with ICSI

For successful IVF, it’s important to adjust your lifestyle:

Abstain from alcohol and smoking
Normalize your diet
Reduce stress
Avoid excessive physical strain

Certain medications may need to be stopped

Avoid saunas and baths during preparation

If you are regularly taking medications for chronic conditions, inform your doctor.

How the ICSI Procedure Is Performed

Preparation for ICSI First, the woman undergoes medicated stimulation for superovulation. Follicle puncture is then performed to retrieve mature egg cells. This procedure is done under anesthesia.

ICSI Process At this stage, the doctor selects the best sperm from those obtained either naturally from the ejaculate or surgically from the testicle. The sperm is then immobilized (the tail of the sperm is cut). The egg is fixed, and the sperm is injected into it under a microscope. After successful fertilization, the embryo is cultured and later transferred into the uterus.

The procedure itself is not complicated. However, the ICSI method increases the success rate of achieving pregnancy.