Parenthood means a new beginning for anyone. ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) is a specialised form of IVF that is used when it is clinically indicated. At Eva Hospital, Ludhiana, ICSI is offered to couples after a detailed evaluation of the cause of the difficulty in conceiving.
What is ICSI?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: A micromanipulatory technique by which a single highly selected spermatozoon is injected into the cytoplasm of a mature egg. ICSI is a laboratory technique in which an embryologist injects a single selected sperm directly into a mature egg. It is most often used when there is male-factor infertility (low sperm count, reduced movement or abnormal shape) and in selected cases such as previous fertilisation failure. In conventional IVF, eggs and sperm are placed together in the laboratory and fertilisation occurs naturally. ICSI is not required for every IVF cycle.
When Is ICSI Used?
At Eva Hospital, the ICSI procedure is suggested when it is medically appropriate and suitable for the patient. Some of the advantages include
- Increased Fertilization Rate: In suitable cases, ICSI shows better results with fertilization than usual IVF.
- Previous fertilisation failure: may be considered when fertilisation did not occur with conventional IVF.
- Limited number of eggs: allows fertilisation to be attempted when few mature eggs are retrieved.
- Embryo monitoring: embryos are observed after injection to help decide which to transfer.
Who Should Consider ICSI?
- ICSI is not essential for all couples undergoing fertility treatment. At Eva Hospital, a A thorough assessment is carried out before ICSI is recommended. You may be a suitable candidate for ICSI if:
- Previous IVF attempts never reached fertilization
- A limited number of mature eggs are available for fertilization
- The fertilization process needs to be tightly controlled for specific medical reasons
- There exist conditions that affect the function or quality of the reproductive cells
- Fertility challenges still remain unexplained after complete evaluation
- There has been a history of poor embryo development or implantation failure in previous cycles
The ICSI treatment cycle consists of the following stages.
1. Ovarian Stimulation
The female partner in question is administered hormone medications by way of stimulating the ovaries to generate more eggs. This is regularly monitored through an ultrasound examination and blood test, whereby the eggs are measured for development.
2. Egg Retrieval
Egg retrieval is a short procedure done under anaesthesia or sedation. Some discomfort may be experienced afterwards. This procedure is fast and safe with the least carping.
3. Laboratory Preparation
The mature eggs are maintained with utmost care in in the embryology laboratory to prepare them for the ICSI procedure.
4. ICSI Procedure
A lone healthy sperm is selected and injected directly into the cytoplasm of each mature ovum with the aid of microneedles and a high-powered microscope.
5. Fertilization Monitoring
Fertilized eggs are monitored closely for signs of embryo development. Our embryologists check the divisions and quality of the cells to to select embryo(s) for transfer.
6. Embryo Transfer
One or more suitable embryos are transferred to the uterus. The transfer is usually done without anaesthesia under ultrasound guidance, and most women feel little or no discomfort.
7. Pregnancy Test
Approximately 10 to 14 days after ovum pick-up and ICSI, a blood test is conducted to confirm pregnancy and to start the next step in patient care.
Consultation and Second Opinion
Choosing the correct fertility treatments could be quite the challenge after failures in the past. EVA Hospital offers counseling sessions and second opinions to allow couples to weigh in on all options available for them before making a decision. Our team members will take the time to describe the entire ICSI process to you, answer your questions, and provide very honest guidance on what is best for your own health and interests
Whether you’re beginning your fertility journey or exploring new options after failed treatments, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Why Choose Eva Hospital for ICSI?
- Over 18 years of specialized fertility experience
- Personalized treatment plans designed by Gynaecologist
- Transparent, ethical, and compassionate care
- Advanced laboratory infrastructure for precise procedures
- Continuous support from consultation to post-treatment follow-up
Book Your ICSI Consultation Today
If you are ever contemplating ICSI or if expert advice is ever needed on what fertility treatment is right for you, Eva Hospital Ludhiana is here to guide you with utmost care and clarity. Let us help you walk confidently one step closer to parenthood.
Connect with us today for a consultation with our gynae department and learn more about the fertility treatments provided at Eva Hospital.