spermainjektion

Spermainjektion is a laboratory technique used in assisted reproductive technology to fertilize an oocyte by injecting a single sperm directly into its cytoplasm. The most widely used form is intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), which is performed during an IVF cycle when conventional fertilization may be unlikely due to male-factor infertility or prior fertilization failure.

Indications include male-factor infertility (low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal morphology), previous fertilization failures with conventional IVF, or cases where genetic testing of embryos is planned. It is commonly used in combination with IVF and may involve fresh or frozen eggs or embryos.

During the procedure, the ovaries are stimulated with hormones to produce multiple oocytes, which are retrieved and placed in a laboratory dish. A single sperm is selected and injected through the oocyte’s zona pellucida into the cytoplasm with a fine needle. Fertilization is confirmed after about 12 to 18 hours, and embryos are cultured before transfer to the uterus.

Risks include complications from egg retrieval, ovarian stimulation, and the injection itself. There is a higher risk of multiple pregnancy if more than one embryo is transferred. Some studies report a slightly higher rate of certain congenital anomalies with ICSI compared with conventional IVF, but absolute risks remain small. Outcomes depend on age and infertility factors.