ICSI Candidates
For couples who have been unsuccessful at conceiving through more traditional fertility treatments, we offer intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). For patients who are ICSI candidates, our doctors at The Center for Fertility and Gynecology in Los Angeles, CA can explain this treatment option in detail. They will provide an overview of the treatment process and explain the benefits of this treatment.
Are We ICSI Candidates?
In general, most couples who have tried for a year or more to conceive without success may qualify for ICSI. This treatment is especially helpful for couples who have attempted IUI (intrauterine insemination) without success.
You may also qualify for ICSI if:
- The sperm cannot reach the egg or
- The sperm is capable of reaching the egg, but fails to fertilize the egg for some reason.
ICSI and Male Factor Infertility
In addition to the inability to reach and fertilize an egg, we may recommend ICSI for couples whose male partner has an extremely low or non-existent sperm count. Intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection is especially helpful for couples that prefer not to use donor sperm to conceive. Specific male infertility cases in which we might recommend ICSI include:
- Cases of vasectomy or injury that prevents the sperm from being ejaculated
- High percentage of abnormally shaped sperm
- Premature ejaculation or an inability to sustain an erection
- Low sperm count or motility
With ICSI, we may collect the sperm directly from the testicles or the epididymis, bypassing any complications with ejaculation. If ejaculation is normal, we will have the male patient provide a sperm sample.
ICSI and Female Factor Infertility
While more commonly used to address and bypass causes of male factor infertility, we can also use ICSI for certain cases of female factor infertility. Intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection is highly recommended for women whose quantity and quality of eggs has depleted. It significantly increases a woman’s chances of successful conception.
Advantages of ICSI
We recommend ICSI for many of our patients, especially those struggling with male factor infertility. In vitro fertilization often fails for men with low sperm counts. This is because such a large number of sperm are needed for the fertilization process.
With ICSI, however, we need just one viable sperm and one viable egg. The sperm is injected directly into the egg, avoiding any obstacles that may prevent the sperm from reaching the egg. Choosing ICSI can significantly improve your chances of achieving a successful conception compared with IVF and other fertility treatments. Additionally, with ICSI, the sperm comes from the male partner, rather than a donor, which is often preferable to couples trying to conceive.
Find Out if ICSI Is Right for You
If you have struggled to conceive and begin building your family, you may need to consider fertility treatments. If you have already tried IVF or other fertility methods, ICSI may be right for you. Contact our fertility center today to schedule a consultation.