For generations, there was little that doctor could do to help infertile couples especially where male factor was involved (disorders of sperm production). However in the last few years there has been major break-through in the treatment of male subfertility in the form of Intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Till recently solution of stubborn cases of male subfertility was adoption, now thay can be treated successfully by this method.
WHAT IS ICSI?
ICSI is very similar to conventional IVF in that gametes (eggs and sperm) are collected from
each partner. The difference between the two procedures is the method of achieving fertilization.
In conventional IVF, the eggs and sperm are mixed together in a dish and the sperm fertilizes the egg ‘naturally’. However to have a chance that this will occur, large numbers of actively swimming normal sperm are required. For many couples, the number of suitable sperm available may be very limited or there may be other factors preventing fertilization, so conventional IVF is not an option. ICSI has provided a hope for these couples.
ICSI refers to the laboratory procedure where a single sperm is picked up with a fine glass needle and is injected directly into each egg .This is carried out in the laboratory by experienced embryologists using specialist equipment. Very few sperm are required and the ability of the sperm to penetrate the egg is no longer important as this has been assisted by the ICSI technique. ICSI does not guarantee that fertilization will occur as the normal cellular events of fertilization still need to occur once the sperm has been placed in the egg.
INDICATIONS:
From a patient perspective, undergoing an ICSI treatment cycle is exactly the same as a conventional IVF cycle, and the same steps are involved.
Circumstances in which ICSI may be appropriate include:
- Severe Oligo Astheneo Teratozoerpmi
- Azoospermia via MESA, PESA & in more severe forms TESE
- high levels of antibodies in the semen
- Repeated fertilisation failure using conventional IVF
- Retrograde Ejaculation
WHO NEEDS ICSI?
Couples with following problems can be helped with this technology:
- Very low sperm count (Oligospermia)
- Obstructive azoospermia (absence of
- Very low sperm motility
spermatozoa due to obstruction - Failed fertilization in conventional IVF
- Repeated IUI failure
WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF SUCCESS?
Chance of success are about 35% however in any given couple chances of success depend upon various factors among which quality of semen and egg of wife are important examples. The success rate of ICSI/IVF seems to be low but one should bear in mind that in absolutely normal couples the possibility of achieving a pregnancy in any given cycle is one in six to one in nine.
HOW MANY ATTEMPTS OF ICSI/IVF CAN BE MADE?
From medical point of view there in no limit on the number of attempts but one has to take into consideration emotional and financial stress involved in this treatment.
IS THERE ANY CHANCE OF HAVING ABNORMALITY IN THE BABY BY ICSI BECAUSE THE SPERMS ARE INJECTED MANUALLY INTO THE EGG ?
If there is a family history of malformations then the risk is higher. Millions of normal babies have been born in the world with the help of this technology.
WHERE CAN I HAVE SPERM FROZEN FOR FUTURE USE?
pe frozen in the cryo bank at LIFE at any time. There is additional charge for this coure. Frozen sperms can be used in future and the results are equally good.
WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF SUCCESS?
Generally at good centers all over the world average chances of success are 40% Having this perspective may help you think about trying more then one cycle. and feel less discouraged if the first one doesn’t work.
HOW LONG THE TREATMENT TAKES?
One cycle of IVF takes between four weeks and six weeks to complete. The couple can expect to spend about half a day at the clinic for egg retrieval and fertilization procedures.
USE OF DONOR’S SPERM
We strictly use husband’s spermatozoa (male sperm) and wife’s egg. Donor’s spermatozoa (male germs), egg and surrogacy facilities are not available in Our clinic.
IS IT PAINFUL?
No, it is not a painful procedure. There is no surgery or operation involved. Injections may cause some discomfort. Emotionally and psychologically it is stressful treatment.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE-EFFECT OF THIS PROCEDURE?
Slight weight gain may occur due to water retention but it is temporary and reversible.
I WISH TO HAVE TWINS WHAT ARE THE CHANCES?
Chances of multiple pregnancies are high in IVF/ICSI procedure. we transfer 1-3 e but the results cannot be guaranteed. However twins and other multiple pregnancies carry higher risks of complications of pregnancies specially pre-mature births and new born body risks.
I HAD MY TUBES TIED (STERILIZATION) COULD I BE A CANDIDATE FOR IVF?
Yes you are good IVF candidate. It can help you to have a baby without surgery for reversal of the table ligation.