The pros and cons of intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may vary based on the couple, but the pros generally outweigh the cons. Benefits of the procedure are that when the male in a couple has inadequate sperm numbers or mobility, the couple can still have a child that is biologically related to both partners. It is also more cost-effective than using donor sperm. It is not for everyone, however, as it is also pricier than certain other fertility treatments and may not be available in all locations.
Using ICSI for infertility has many benefits for couples who may have otherwise needed a sperm donor. Men with immobile or limited sperm may not have success using conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) methods, which requires sperm to swim and fertilize the egg as in a normal conception, but in a petri dish rather than in a woman’s fallopian tube. Instead of doing it that way, ICSI involves the injection of sperm directly into the egg so that fertilization can take place. The fertilized eggs are then inserted into the uterus as they would be in conventional IVF.
By using ICSI for infertility with these couples, a child will still be the biological child of both parents. This is also cost-effective, as the added expense of finding and purchasing donated sperm can quickly add up, especially if success is not obtained on the first try. The overall success of ICSI for infertility in most couples is about the same as with other IVF methods.
There are a couple of drawbacks in using ICSI for infertility that couples should be aware of. For one, it is not always available in all areas. This means that in order to have it performed, couples may have to travel to a clinic which offers this procedure. It is also more costly than some other treatments, such as artificial insemination. That said, pricing is often comparable to other methods of IVF, so if simpler treatments are not an option prices may be relatively affordable when compared to similar procedures.
The success of using ICSI for infertility will depend highly on the individual couple. Overall, this procedure is most beneficial to couples wherein the female has viable eggs with few genetic defects. If not, donor eggs may be required and the savings of using the male partner’s sperm may be offset by this additional cost. Couples should discuss the best fertility treatments for them with their health care provider.