IVF with ICSI is a special kind of fertility treatment designed to help couples have a baby when they're having trouble doing so on their own. In simpler terms, it involves doctors taking a single sperm and carefully inserting it into an egg to help start a pregnancy. This method is particularly helpful for couples where the male partner has low sperm count or mobility.
Recovery and the timeline can vary, but here's a general guide:
Recovery time: Patients typically resume normal activities within a day or two, but hormonal changes and procedures might require more rest.
Stay in Turkey: For the full treatment and follow-up, plan to stay about 2 to 3 weeks.
Return to work: Most can return to work within a few days, unless your job is physically demanding.
Return to exercise: Light exercises like walking can be resumed almost immediately, but wait for a couple of weeks before trying anything more strenuous.
Visibility of final results: The outcome, meaning a successful pregnancy, could be determined about two weeks after the embryo transfer.
Activities to avoid: Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities until your doctor says it's okay.
Diet: There's no specific diet post-procedure, but eating healthy, balanced meals can support your body through the treatment and potential pregnancy.
Consultation
The consultation involves discussing your medical history and fertility challenges to tailor the treatment. Tests may be conducted to ensure the best approach is taken.
Before the Surgery
Preparation includes stopping certain medications and starting fertility drugs to stimulate egg production. You'll be closely monitored through this phase.
The Surgery
For IVF with ICSI, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries in a minor surgical procedure. A single sperm is then injected directly into an egg. If fertilization occurs, the embryo is transferred to the uterus.
Follow-Up
A follow-up is usually scheduled about two weeks after the embryo transfer to check for pregnancy.
Patients generally report high satisfaction with IVF with ICSI. While success rates vary, they're significantly higher than traditional methods, especially in cases of male infertility. Some studies suggest success rates as high as 70-80% under optimal conditions.
Procedure | IVF with ICSI |
Duration | 3-4 weeks |
Stay | 2-3 weeks |
Cost | €2,500 - €4,000 per cycle |
Anesthesia | Local anesthesia for egg retrieval |
Recovery | Resume normal activities within a few days; full hormonal recovery varies |
Final Results | Success can be assessed about two weeks post embryo transfer |
Side Effects | Mild cramping, bloating, emotional swings |
Risks | Infection, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) |
Success Rate | High, varies by case; significantly higher than traditional methods |
Exercise | Light exercise immediately, more strenuous after a couple of weeks |
Back To Work | Within a few days, unless physically demanding job |
Scars | None |
Pain | Minimal, similar to a pap smear |
Related Procedures | Donor Egg IVF, IVF with IMSI, Donor Egg IVF with Donor Sperm |
IVF with ICSI involves directly injecting a single sperm into an egg, increasing the chances of fertilization, especially useful in cases of male infertility.
From start to finish, including consultations, treatment, and embryo transfer, the process can take about 3 to 4 weeks.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the egg retrieval and embryo transfer procedures, often described as similar to a pap smear.
Success rates vary, but IVF with ICSI often has higher success rates than traditional IVF, especially in cases of male infertility.
While technically possible, the use of IVF with ICSI for gender selection is subject to ethical and legal considerations in many countries.
There's no set limit, but it's essential to discuss your specific situation with your fertility specialist.
Coverage varies by location and insurance provider. Check with your insurance for specifics.
While there are no strict age limits, the success rates of fertility treatments generally decrease with age, particularly after age 35 for women.
It's generally safe to travel after IVF with ICSI, but consult with your doctor for personalized advice.
A balanced, healthy diet can support your body during treatment. Some doctors recommend increasing protein intake and staying hydrated.