Over the years, advances in technology have allowed many more couples in the world to become parents even when their fertility problems were exceptionally devastating. One of the most innovative techniques in the field of human reproduction is precisely ICSI or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, a variant of the In Vitro Fertilization in which even more hopeful results are obtained for people who have not managed to have a baby.
This treatment has been used in the main fertility clinics since the 90s, and is indicated when it has been detected that the cause of infertility in the couple falls directly on the man. And it is known that, contrary to what was believed in the past, 40% of cases of infertility in a couple are directly associated with the male factor, and for this reason, it is necessary to resort to assisted reproduction treatments where the egg is fertilized directly by a sperm in good condition.
What is ICSI?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection or ICSI is a highly complex fertility treatment where, as in an In Vitro Fertilization treatment, eggs are extracted from the woman’s body by means of a ovarian puncture to take them to the laboratory. There, by means of high-resolution microscopes and micromanipulators, A single sperm is injected into each previously captured egg. After 2 or 3 days, the fertilized eggs (already 4 or 8 cell embryos) They are introduced directly into the woman’s uterus to be implanted there and finish their development through pregnancy.
This treatment is indicated when there is asevere male factor of infertility. Some of the variables associated with this diagnosis are:
- It is found low motile sperm count in the ejaculated semen.
- There is a very low sperm concentration and few normal sperm are found.
- There is a total absence of sperm in the ejaculate.
What are the chances of success with this treatment?
The likelihood of getting pregnant with a cycle of ICSI can range from a 20% and 50%, according to factors such as:
- The woman’s age, which may be the most influential predictor of success.
- The duration of infertility.
- The causes of infertility.
The cumulative total pregnancy rate after three cycles of treatment can be greater than 70%.
If you require more information about this and other assisted reproduction techniques, we invite you to consult with one of our Inser specialists in Medellín, Bogotá, Rionegro, Pereira or Cartagena. There you will receive a concrete diagnosis of infertility in the couple and the steps to follow to achieve that beautiful dream of having a baby.
InSer Group.
