ICSI

ICSI or Intracytoplasmic sperm Injection is offered to a couple when the semen sample does not fall within 'normal' parameters. This can be due to:

• Oligozoospermia - Low number of sperm in the ejaculate
• Athenzoospermia - Poor progression or movement of the sperm
• Teratzoospemia - High numbers of abnormally formed sperm

Other couples that might be offered ICSI are those who have unexplained fertility, who have had an IVF cycle which has resulted in low or no fertilisation.

ICSI Treatment Stage 1

The first stage of treatment involves taking a nasal spray or subcutaneous injection of GnRH or Gonandotrophin releasing Hormone analogue. This drug temporarily stops the normal activity of the ovary so that ovulation does not occur when the ovaries are being stimulated. It shuts down the ‘normal’ ovarian function. Some women may experience side effects from the nasal spray or injection. These can be headaches, hot flushes or mood swings. The symptoms can be similar to that of PMT. The nasal spray or injection is taken for approximately two weeks. An ultra sound scan will then be performed to ensure that the ovaries are inactive.