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Male Infertility Treatment: Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can assist couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) to succeed by improving the chances of fertilization. ICSI is particularly beneficial for those experiencing male factor infertility, which accounts for a third of all infertility cases. Whether you're just starting your fertility journey or have already undergone multiple IVF cycles, ICSI may be the logical next step to help grow your family.

ICSI vs. Traditional IVF

ICSI is a specialized fertilization technique used during an IVF cycle. In traditional IVF, thousands of sperm are placed near an egg in a lab dish, allowing fertilization to occur naturally. With ICSI, a single healthy sperm is carefully injected directly into an egg. While it doesn’t guarantee fertilization, this precise method can increase the chances of success, especially in cases involving male factor infertility or previous failed fertilization.

Who Needs ICSI?

ICSI primarily benefits couples experiencing male factor infertility. A fertility doctor may recommend ICSI if the male partner experiences:

• Anejaculation (the inability to ejaculate)

• A blockage in their reproductive system

• Poor sperm quality

• Low sperm count

• Retrograde ejaculation (when semen flows backward into the bladder)

ICSI can also benefit couples undergoing preimplantation genetic testing or using cryopreserved eggs, particularly if the female partner supplying the eggs is over 35. ICSI is also a viable option for couples who have previously undergone traditional IVF and weren’t able to create embryos.

ICSI Success Rates and Costs

ICSI success rates depend on various factors, including female age, uterine health, egg and sperm quality, and overall health. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), ​​50% to 80% of ICSI attempts result in fertilization. ICSI prices can range from $800 to $3,000 and is usually an add-on cost to a standard IVF cycle. 

Learn More About ICSI

ICSI may offer the best chances of fertilization, especially for couples experiencing male factor infertility. Before pursuing fertility care, it’s important to consult with a fertility specialist and undergo a fertility evaluation to see if ICSI is the right choice for your unique situation.

At the Center for Reproductive Medicine, our fertility physicians can answer your questions about ICSI and create a personalized treatment plan to help you conceive. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment in Winter Park, Lake Nona, or Celebration. 

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