Can You Do ICSI with INVOcell?

While IVF (in vitro fertilization) continues to be the most popular option for couples struggling with infertility, Dr. Sonja Kristiansen has other treatment options that infertile couples can consider. One such option available at our Houston, TX fertility center is INVOcell™, an afforable and effective IVF alternative. Thanks to INVOcell, couples facing male or female infertility have another means of building a family together.

Some couples undergoing IVF require intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to aid in the IVF process. They wonder if ICSI can be used during an INVOcell cycle. Let’s go over some of the basics of this issue and provide some answers.

About INVOcell

INVOcell is an IVF alternative that reduces the amount of lab work involved in the fertility treatment process. During the procedure, harvested eggs and sperm are combined in a small INVOcell device. This device is placed into a woman’s vaginal canal, and the sperm will fertilize the egg while inside of the INVOcell container.

The use of an incubator is no longer necessary as the process of fertilization and cellular division occurs in the INVOcell device.

Why ICSI Is Sometimes Used During IVF

ICSI is a process in which an individual sperm is injected into an egg. Doing this will help improve the chances of fertilization during an IVF cycle. This is done in a lab, with a fertility doctor working with a microscope.

Ideal Candidates for ICSI

Good candidates for ICSI are couples facing issues with low sperm count and/or poor sperm motility. In both of these cases, issues with the quantity or quality of the sperm require a fertility doctor’s assistance for fertilization to be successful.

Is ICSI Performed During INVOcell?

Typically no, but ICSI and INVOcell are compatible treatments. In other words, INVOcell and ICSI can be performed together if needed.

When we use INVOcell at Houston Fertility Center, the usual goal is to simply combine the sperm and the egg in the INVOcell device and allow fertilization to take place in as natural an environment as possible.

If sperm motility and sperm quality are serious issues for a couple, we can inject the sperm into an egg prior to placing the INVOcell device in the vaginal canal. That said, since the sperm and the egg are in close proximity during INVOcell, ICSI may not be necessary, even for issues with sperm motility. This can vary from patient to patient, of course.

How Successful Is INVOcell?

INVOcell boasts success rates similar to traditional IVF. Patient age, the fertility challenges present, and the quality of the egg and sperm used will pay roles in the outcomes of the procedure, but even then, INVOcell’s success rates remain comparable to IVF.

Is INVOcell or IVF Better for Me?

This is best discussed during a consultation at our practice. We can take time to go over the cause or causes of infertility, discuss the ideally methods of treatment, go over all risks and benefits, and then help you make the best decision based on your needs.

Whatever situation you’re facing, know that our team of fertility specialists is here to give you all the facts you need to make well-informed decisions.

Learn More About INVOcell

If you are interested in treatments for infertility such as INVOcell or traditional IVF, be sure to contact a skilled fertility doctor. The team at Houston Fertility Center is here to help. Schedule a consultation by phone at (713) 862-6181.