In the world of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), two commonly utilised procedures are Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). These techniques offer hope to couples facing fertility challenges by increasing the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy. However, they differ significantly in their methods and applications.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is commonly known as artificial insemination. It is a less invasive procedure compared to ICSI. It involves the introduction of prepared sperm directly into the woman’s uterus at an IVF center in Kolkata or any major city. This is done during the woman’s fertile period.
This procedure is commonly recommended for couples experiencing mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, or when the cervical mucus poses a hindrance to sperm movement.
- Process
The IUI process begins with the collection of a semen sample from the male partner. This sample is then washed and concentrated to isolate healthy, motile sperm. Subsequently, the prepared sperm is placed into the woman’s uterus using a thin catheter at an IVF centre in Kolkata. This method increases the proximity of sperm to the fallopian tubes, enhancing the likelihood of fertilisation when an egg is released.
IUI is a relatively non-invasive and simple procedure, usually devoid of discomfort or significant side effects. It is also less expensive compared to more advanced ART techniques. However, its success rates tend to vary. They depend on factors like the female partner’s age, the cause of infertility, and the quality of sperm.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
ICSI, on the other hand, is a more intricate and advanced procedure within the ART spectrum. It is particularly recommended in cases of severe male infertility, where the sperm count, motility, or morphology is significantly compromised. In ICSI, a single sperm is selected and then injected directly into an egg to facilitate fertilisation. This technique bypasses the need for sperm to penetrate the egg naturally at the best IVF centre in Kolkata or any other city.
- Process
The ICSI process involves several steps. First, mature eggs are retrieved from the female partner through a minor surgical procedure known as follicular aspiration. Simultaneously, a semen sample is collected from the male partner. Next, a highly skilled embryologist chooses a viable sperm and injects it into an egg using specialised micromanipulation tools. The fertilised egg (embryo) is then monitored for a few days before being transferred into the woman’s uterus.
ICSI’s precision-oriented approach often yields higher fertilisation rates compared to conventional in vitro fertilisation (IVF) techniques. It is particularly beneficial when male infertility issues make fertilisation improbable through traditional methods. However, ICSI requires a well-equipped laboratory, skilled technicians and is generally more expensive than IUI.
Overview of the difference between ICSI and IUI
|
No |
Aspect |
ICSI |
IUI |
|
1 |
Procedure |
Involves injecting a single sperm directly into the egg to assist fertilization. |
Involves placing washed and prepared sperm directly into the uterus to increase the chances of fertilization. |
|
2 |
Fertilisation Location |
Occurs inside the laboratory during the ICSI procedure. |
Happens naturally in the woman’s body, in the fallopian tube. |
|
3 |
Involvement of Egg |
Requires retrieving eggs from the woman’s ovaries through an IVF procedure. |
Requires monitoring the woman’s natural ovulation cycle or stimulating it with fertility drugs to produce multiple eggs. |
|
4 |
Timing |
The ICSI procedure is performed after egg retrieval, typically on the same day. |
Sperm is introduced into the uterus around the time of ovulation, usually within 24-36 hours. |
|
5 |
Invasive Procedure |
Involves a more invasive process due to egg retrieval. |
Less invasive, as it doesn’t require egg retrieval. |
