What is ICSI?
ICSI, or IntraCytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is an advanced form of IVF that is specially used to treat male infertility. In this procedure, a single healthy sperm is directly injected into a mature egg using high-precision lab equipment. This helps fertilization happen even when the sperm count is very low or sperm movement is poor.
At Zemya IVF & Fertility Clinics, we offer ICSI treatment in Delhi for couples who need extra support in their fertility journey. It is one of the most effective techniques for overcoming male factor infertility and improving embryo quality.
When is ICSI Recommended?
Our fertility specialists may suggest ICSI in cases such as:
- Very low sperm count
- Poor sperm motility (sperm not moving well)
- Abnormally shaped sperm (poor morphology)
- Failed fertilization in previous IVF attempts
- Use of frozen sperm or surgically retrieved sperm
- Obstructive azoospermia (blockage in sperm transport)
- Couples using TESE, PESA, or Micro-TESE procedures
- Cases where the egg needs help to fertilize
If you or your partner have been told that there’s a problem with sperm quality or quantity, ICSI may be the right option. Zemya IVF & Fertility Clinics is a leading center for male fertility treatment in Delhi.
How ICSI Works: Step-by-Step
Step 01
Ovarian Stimulation and Monitoring
The female partner receives hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Regular ultrasounds and blood tests are done to track progress.
Step 02
Egg Retrieval
Once the eggs are ready, they are collected through a minor outpatient procedure under light sedation.
Step 03
Sperm Collection and Selection
A semen sample is collected from the male partner (or retrieved surgically if needed). In the lab, our embryologists carefully select a single healthy sperm for each mature egg.
Step 04
Sperm Injection (ICSI)
Under a powerful microscope, each egg is injected with one sperm using a very fine needle. This process gives even weak sperm a chance to fertilize the egg.
Step 05
Embryo Development
The fertilized eggs (embryos) are monitored for 3 to 5 days. Our team checks for healthy growth and development.
Step 06
Embryo Transfer
A selected healthy embryo is transferred into the woman’s uterus. This is a simple, painless procedure done without anesthesia.
Step 07
Pregnancy Test
After about 10–14 days, a blood test is done to confirm if implantation has occurred and pregnancy has begun.
Success Rate of ICSI
The success of ICSI depends on many factors like the woman’s age, the quality of eggs and sperm, and overall fertility health. On average:
- Fertilization rate with ICSI is around 70–80% per mature egg
- Pregnancy rate per cycle ranges from 40% to 60% for women under 35
- Success rates may be lower for women above 38 or with poor egg quality
ICSI increases the chance of fertilization, especially when sperm-related problems are present. However, it does not guarantee pregnancy.
Risks Associated with ICSI
ICSI is considered very safe, but as with any fertility procedure, there are some risks to understand:
Fertilization Failure
Even with ICSI, sometimes eggs may not fertilize. This happens rarely, but we always explain this possibility before treatment.
Egg or Embryo Damage
The process of injecting sperm directly into the egg may occasionally cause damage to the egg or result in abnormal embryo development. Our embryologists are highly trained to keep this risk very low.
Lower Success in Poor Egg Quality
ICSI helps overcome sperm issues, but it cannot improve egg quality. If the eggs are not healthy, the chances of pregnancy may still be low.
Multiple Pregnancy (If more than one Embryo is Transferred)
We usually recommend single embryo transfer to reduce this risk unless medically indicated.
Emotional and Financial Stress
Like all fertility treatments, ICSI can be emotionally and financially demanding. At Zemya IVF & Fertility Clinics, we support you with honest communication, counselling, and affordable packages.
Long-term Baby Health Concerns
Research shows that babies born through ICSI are generally healthy. Some studies have raised mild concerns, but most experts agree that the risks are low and similar to natural conception.
Why choose Zemya IVF & Fertility Clinics?
At Zemya IVF & Fertility Clinics, we design each treatment plan around your specific needs and medical history.
With over 30 years of combined experience and more than 10,000 healthy deliveries, our team is committed to helping you achieve your dream of parenthood with skill, care, and compassion.
Here’s what makes Zemya IVF & Fertility Clinics one of the top 5 IVF and fertility centres in Delhi:
Each treatment is designed specifically around your medical history, goals, and emotional needs.
Our doctors and embryologists are internationally accredited and bring decades of hands-on fertility experience to every case.
We explain everything clearly—no hidden fees, no unnecessary procedures.
Get access to the best care at a cost that respects your budget.
From lab facilities to diagnostic equipment, we use the latest in reproductive science to increase your chances of success.
Whether you’re just starting out or seeking a second opinion, Zemya IVF & Fertility Clinics is here to guide you every step of the way, with experience you can trust, and care you can feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
The sample is collected quickly, and lab results are usually ready in 24 to 48 hours.
ICSI is not better for everyone-it’s mainly used when there’s a male infertility issue. IVF is usually enough when sperm quality is normal.
No. The actual injection of sperm happens in the lab, and the egg retrieval and embryo transfer are simple outpatient procedures with little to no pain.
Fertilization rates with ICSI are high-about 70–80% of mature eggs usually fertilize. However, pregnancy depends on many factors like age and egg quality.
Yes. Most studies show that ICSI is safe. The chances of birth defects are very low and similar to those seen in natural conception or IVF.
Yes. ICSI can be done with donor sperm when medically indicated.
