ICSI

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a special method of in vitro fertilisation. It is used when there is a severe sperm quality disorder (see sperm testing). In this case, it is assumed that the sperm cannot penetrate an egg by itself. Thus, with conventional IVF treatment, where eggs and sperm are simply placed together in a culture dish, fertilisation would not occur. Therefore, in ICSI therapy, a single sperm from the partner is injected into each mature egg. To do this, the egg is placed under a microscope, aspirated with a glass capillary and held in place. Then a sperm with good motility is drawn up into a second thin glass capillary and inserted directly into the egg. ICSI is therefore an additional process in the laboratory, but for the patient the treatment steps are identical to IVF therapy.

Before starting the therapy, it must be determined whether conventional IVF or ICSI is required. The corresponding application for cost coverage can be submitted to your health insurance company. You will receive this application from us after the cost and insurance situation has been explained to you during your consultation with us. For ICSI therapy, two spermiograms are required at intervals of 12 weeks, which meet the criteria oft he health insurance companies. It is therefore possible that a further spermiogram will be required after the initial consultation. It is also recommended that a chromosomal analysis be performed on both partners. The new Artificial Insemination Guidelines 2017 regulate that men must be examined by a physician with an andrology qualification prior to ICSI therapy.