Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) or microinjection is one of the effective methods of in vitro fertilization in the treatment of infertile couples. In this method, high-quality and fertile sperm is directly injected into the cytoplasm of the egg with special tools in the laboratory. Normally, in IVF, the sperm and the separated egg are fertilized together in the laboratory, but when the number and speed of sperm are low or the egg does not allow the sperm to penetrate, the sperm is injected into the egg using the ICSI method and the next steps proceed.

Procedure  The steps of microinjection are similar to the IVF steps, with the only step being selecting the appropriate sperm and injecting it in the laboratory.

Sperm collection method: If sperm cannot be collected with ejaculation, it is collected through a small incision in the testicular tissue.

Ovulation: To prepare the conditions for fertilization, because the female egg is only active for 24 hours and must be injected directly at this time, serial ultrasounds and ovulation-stimulating pills and ampoules are used to help produce mature follicles. About 34 to 36 hours later, the fertilized eggs are prepared for release, and before they are released, the doctor collects them by laparoscopy or aspiration. In these methods, a long, very thin needle is guided through the vagina to the ovaries and collects the released eggs.

Sperm injection and transfer: A glass instrument is used to hold the collected eggs in place. A fine glass tube is used to place a sperm into the egg. After fertilization in the laboratory, the sperm are checked overnight to make sure they are fertilized and fertilization has occurred. After fertilization, eggs that have been successfully fertilized and grown for 3 to 5 days are selected. One or more fertilized eggs are placed in the wall of the uterus using a thin, flexible tube, like a catheter, through the cervix. Depending on age and other medical information, it is determined how many fertilized eggs will be injected into the uterus. Sometimes, all of the injected eggs are successful and a twin or multiple pregnancy occurs.

What happens after the embryo transfer? The injection is performed as an outpatient procedure and you may feel some cramping during the injection. However, the recovery time after it is short and only one or two days of rest are enough, after which you can easily return to your daily activities. After the procedure, checkups such as ultrasound, monitoring and care of the mother are prescribed. Also, a blood test is recommended after two weeks to confirm pregnancy