Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a highly advanced fertility technique that has helped many couples overcome male infertility and achieve pregnancy. This procedure is especially beneficial for those facing issues such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology. Understanding the key stages of ICSI treatment can help patients prepare both emotionally and physically for the process.
Step 1: Ovarian Stimulation
The first step of ICSI treatment involves stimulating the female partner’s ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. Fertility medications, often in the form of hormonal injections, are administered under the guidance of a fertility specialist. During this stage, the growth of ovarian follicles is closely monitored through ultrasound scans and blood tests to ensure that eggs are developing properly.
Step 2: Egg Retrieval
Once the follicles reach the desired size, a trigger injection is given to induce egg maturation. Around 34 to 36 hours after the trigger shot, egg retrieval is performed. This minor surgical procedure is carried out under mild sedation, using a thin needle to collect mature eggs from the ovaries. The procedure typically lasts around 20 to 30 minutes, and patients can return home the same day.
Step 3: Sperm Collection and Preparation
On the same day as the egg retrieval, the male partner provides a semen sample. If sperm cannot be obtained through natural ejaculation due to certain medical conditions, it can be retrieved surgically through techniques like PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) or TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration). The collected sperm are then washed and prepared in the laboratory to isolate the healthiest and most motile ones for injection.
Step 4: Sperm Injection into the Egg
In this critical step, an embryologist selects a single healthy sperm and injects it directly into the cytoplasm of a mature egg using a fine glass needle. This process bypasses natural fertilization barriers, ensuring that even sperm with low motility or poor morphology can fertilize the egg. The fertilized eggs are then placed in a special incubator for further development.
Step 5: Embryo Culture and Monitoring
Over the next few days, the fertilized eggs (now embryos) are carefully monitored for proper cell division and growth. Typically, embryos are cultured for about 3 to 5 days before transfer. The best-quality embryos are selected based on their development rate and structure. Some couples may also opt for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to identify chromosomal abnormalities before implantation.
Step 6: Embryo Transfer
Once the embryos are ready, one or two of the healthiest ones are transferred into the woman’s uterus using a thin catheter. This is a painless and non-surgical procedure, usually done under ultrasound guidance. The remaining high-quality embryos can be frozen for future use if needed. After the transfer, the patient is advised to rest briefly and follow all post-procedure care instructions provided by the fertility team.
Step 7: Luteal Phase Support and Pregnancy Test
After the embryo transfer, hormonal medications such as progesterone are prescribed to support the uterine lining and encourage implantation. About two weeks later, a blood test (beta-hCG) is conducted to confirm pregnancy. If the result is positive, the woman will be monitored closely in the following weeks to ensure a healthy early pregnancy.
Emotional and Physical Preparation
Undergoing ICSI treatment can be emotionally challenging. Couples are encouraged to maintain open communication with their medical team and seek emotional support when needed. Healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet, stress management, and avoiding smoking or alcohol, can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Conclusion:
ICSI is a groundbreaking solution for couples struggling with male infertility or previous IVF failures. Each step from ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer is carefully tailored to the patient’s needs and handled by experienced professionals to maximize the chances of success. With proper guidance and emotional support, ICSI can bring hopeful couples one step closer to fulfilling their dream of parenthood.
For More Details: https://acimc.org/ivf-lahore/
