The steps of intracttoplasmic sperm injection procedure are as follow:

Step 1- Ovarian stimulation:

The female partner undergoes ovarian stimulation with hormones. This is done to produce multiple eggs for retrieval.

Step 2- Monitoring follicle development:

Regular ultrasound scans and blood tests are conducted, and the development of the follicles is monitored to ensure optimal egg maturation.

Step 3- Egg retrieval:

When the follicles are mature, a trigger injection is given. Approximately 36 hours later, a minor surgical procedure is performed to retrieve the eggs from the ovaries.

Step 4- Sperm collection:

A sperm sample is collected from the male partner through ejaculation. If necessary, sperm can also be retrieved surgically from the testis.

Step 5- Sperm preparation:

The sperm sample is processed in the laboratory, then healthy and motile sperm are selected for injection.

Step 6- Injection process:

Under a microscope, a single sperm is drawn into a tiny glass needle, then the selected sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of each mature egg.

Step 7- Fertilization observation:

The eggs are closely monitored for signs of fertilization. This usually occurs within 16-20 hours post-injection.

Step 8- Fertilized eggs (embryos) are cultured in the lab for several days. Embryologists assess the quality of the developing embryos.

Step 9- Embryo transfer:

One or more healthy embryos are selected for transfer. This procedure is performed through a thin catheter inserted into the uterus.

Step 10- Luteal phase support:

About 10-14 days post-transfer, a pregnancy test is conducted. This determines if the procedure was successful.