Short answer
In IVF, eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish so fertilisation happens on its own. In ICSI, an embryologist injects a single sperm into each egg. ICSI is used mainly for male infertility, such as a very low sperm count or poor movement, or after poor fertilisation in an earlier IVF cycle. For couples without a sperm problem, ICSI has not been shown to improve success over standard IVF.
- Published
- Published by
- Dhruva Hospitals, Kadapa
How they differ
| IVF | ICSI | |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilisation | Sperm and eggs are mixed in a dish | One sperm is injected into each egg |
| Main use | Tubal problems, ovulation problems, endometriosis, unexplained infertility | Male infertility, previous failed fertilisation, surgically collected sperm |
| Rest of the cycle | Same: stimulation, egg collection, embryo transfer | Same: stimulation, egg collection, embryo transfer |
When ICSI is recommended
- A very low sperm count, or poor sperm movement or shape
- No eggs, or very few, fertilised in a previous IVF cycle
- Sperm collected surgically from the testicle or epididymis, for example after a vasectomy or because of a blockage
- Frozen sperm of lower quality
- Embryo testing for a genetic condition
When standard IVF is enough
The UK fertility regulator (HFEA) notes there is no scientific evidence that ICSI helps when the sperm are normal, and professional guidelines do not recommend it over standard IVF in that situation. Using ICSI when it is not needed can raise the cost without improving the chance of a baby.
Success rates
Once the egg is fertilised, success with ICSI is similar to IVF. The most important factors remain the woman’s age and the cause of infertility.
Sperm preparation methods
The lab prepares the sperm before IVF, ICSI or IUI. Dhruva Hospitals’ lab offers density gradient, microfluidic and MACS sperm preparation. Your specialist will explain whether any special method is useful in your case.
At Dhruva Hospitals
Our modular embryology lab has ICSI facilities, and we offer surgical sperm retrieval (TESA, PESA and TESE) for men with no sperm in the semen. Call +91 99599 59694 or WhatsApp us to book a fertility consultation. OPD hours are 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Sex determination of the foetus is not done at Dhruva Hospitals. It is prohibited under the PC & PNDT Act, 1994.
Common questions
Does ICSI cost more than IVF?
Usually yes, because of the extra lab work. That is why it should be used when there is a clear reason, such as a sperm problem.
Can ICSI help if my husband has no sperm in the semen?
Sometimes. If sperm can be found in the testicle or epididymis by a minor surgical procedure, ICSI can be used to fertilise the eggs. Tests help predict whether retrieval is likely to work.
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Sources
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. In an emergency, call +91 90368 52311.