ICSI is a highly specialized form of in vitro fertilization (IVF) that is particularly effective for couples facing male infertility issues. This procedure involves the direct injection of a single sperm into an egg to facilitate fertilization.

Here’s a step-by-step overview of the ICSI process:

1. Ovarian Stimulation: The female partner undergoes ovarian stimulation with fertility medications to promote the development of multiple eggs.
2. Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs have matured, they are retrieved from the ovaries using a minimally invasive procedure using transvaginal ultrasound-guided egg retrieval.
3. Sperm Collection: On the same day as the egg retrieval, a semen sample is collected from the male partner or frozen sample of a sperm donor procured in an ART bank. If necessary, sperm may also be obtained through surgical sperm retrieval techniques.
4. Sperm Preparation: The sperm sample is processed in the laboratory to isolate the healthiest and most motile sperm for the ICSI procedure.
5. Egg Preparation: The mature eggs are carefully examined under a microscope to ensure they are suitable for injection.
6. ICSI Procedure: Using a specialized micromanipulation technique, a single sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of each mature egg.
7. Fertilization Check: After the injection, the eggs are monitored in the laboratory to confirm successful fertilization next day. The presence of two pronuclei indicates fertilization.
8. Embryo Culture: Fertilized eggs, now embryos, are cultured in a controlled environment for several days to allow for development and growth.
9. Embryo Transfer: The highest quality embryos are selected for transfer to the uterus. This is typically done 3 to 5 days after fertilization, using a thin catheter guided by ultrasound.
10. Luteal Phase Support: Following embryo transfer, medications such as progesterone may be prescribed to support the uterine lining and enhance embryo implantation.
11. Pregnancy Test: Approximately 14 days after embryo transfer, a blood pregnancy test is performed to determine if the treatment has been successful.