ICSI vs. IVF: Understanding the key differences

IVF involves fertilising eggs with sperm in a laboratory to create embryos. One or more embryos are then transferred into the uterus.

Procedure overview:

• Hormone therapy to produce multiple eggs.
• Egg retrieval from the ovaries when the eggs are ready.
• Fertilisation of eggs in a laboratory.
• Monitoring fertilised eggs and embryo development.
• Selecting and placing one or more embryos into the uterus.

ICSI is a technique used as part of IVF. It involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg to facilitate fertilisation, and the procedure is similar to IVF.

Procedure overview:

• Hormone therapy to stimulate egg production
• Egg retrieval when the eggs are ready
• Injection of a single sperm cell into an egg 
• Monitoring fertilisation and embryo development
• Embryo transfer to the uterus

Fertilisation method

IVF and ICSI differ in the way the sperm fertilise the egg. In IVF, eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish, allowing natural selection to determine fertilisation. In contrast, ICSI involves selecting a single sperm cell and injecting it directly into the egg.

Indications for IVF or ICSI

IVF is usually recommended for individuals with different fertility challenges or advanced maternal age. ICSI is particularly beneficial for couples experiencing fertility challenges related to male fertility or when previous IVF attempts have been unsuccessful.

Success rates of ICSI vs. IVF

Success rates of both ICSI and IVF depend on factors like age, health and fertility challenges. While ICSI can improve success rates in cases of male fertility challenges, it does not necessarily increase overall success rates compared to IVF.

IVF may be the best option if:

• You are experiencing fertility challenges such as blocked fallopian tubes, PCOS or endometriosis.
• You have a diminished ovarian reserve or advanced maternal age.
• You are starting a family with the help of donor sperm or eggs.

ICSI may be the better choice if:

• You are experiencing fertility challenges related to male fertility.
• You have had previous failed IVF treatments.

Other factors to consider:

• ICSI is usually more expensive than conventional IVF.
• Your doctor or fertility clinic can give you the right recommendation for your situation.

Deciding on the right fertility treatment - whether it’s IVF, ICSI or an alternative type of treatment - can feel like a big step. Talking to your doctor or fertility clinic can help you understand what is right for you.

If you don’t have a clinic yet or need guidance in navigating your fertility journey, we are always here to help you. A fertility consultation can help assess your unique situation, answer your questions and provide tailored recommendations based on your needs.

If you're ready to take the next step, book a fertility consultation here to explore your options and get expert support on your journey to parenthood.