What is ICSI? How Dr Rachael Knight Helps Couples Conceive

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a laboratory procedure used in conjunction with In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF). During ICSI, a single healthy sperm is directly injected into the cytoplasm of a mature egg using a fine glass needle.

Unlike traditional IVF, where eggs and sperm are mixed together in a petri dish to fertilise “naturally,” ICSI gives the sperm a direct path to fertilisation – making it particularly useful when sperm cannot penetrate the egg on its own.

ICSI is often recommended for couples facing male factor infertility, but it’s also used in other situations where fertilisation may be compromised. Common medical reasons for using ICSI include:

1. Low Sperm Count or Poor Motility: When sperm count is low or sperm can’t swim effectively, it may be difficult for sperm to reach and fertilise the egg.
2. Abnormally Shaped Sperm (Teratozoospermia): Misshapen sperm may not be able to bind to or penetrate the egg’s surface.
3. Previous IVF Failure: If fertilisation did not occur in past IVF cycles, ICSI may increase the chance of success.
4. Obstruction or Vasectomy: In cases where sperm are retrieved surgically from the testicles (e.g. after a vasectomy or due to a blockage), ICSI is often required because these sperm may not be fully mature.
5. Use of Frozen or Donor Sperm: Sometimes frozen or donor sperm is less motile, making ICSI a better fertilisation method.
6. Unexplained Infertility: In some cases where the cause of infertility isn’t clear, ICSI is used to maximise fertilisation chances.
7. Previously Frozen Eggs: Previously preserved eggs fertilise better after warming with ICSI.

At Life Fertility Clinic Melbourne, Dr Rachael Knight offers comprehensive, personalised fertility care. With deep expertise in assisted reproductive technologies, Dr Knight helps couples understand whether ICSI is the right approach for their situation.

Her process includes:

• Detailed fertility assessment for both partners
• Advanced semen analysis to diagnose male factor infertility
• Tailored IVF-ICSI treatment plans based on clinical need
• Ongoing support throughout every step of the fertility journey

Dr Knight works closely with experienced embryologists and the latest IVF lab technology to optimise fertilisation and embryo development outcomes.
Whether you’re just starting your fertility journey or have experienced previous IVF failure, Dr Knight offers expert, compassionate care focused on giving every couple the best chance of success.

If you’re facing fertility challenges and want to explore options like ICSI, book a consultation with Dr Rachael Knight at Life Fertility Clinic Melbourne. With advanced reproductive techniques and personalised care, your journey to parenthood is in safe hands. Learn more or schedule an appointment today.