Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

A more targeted approach to fertilisation

ICSI is one of the most targeted tools available in fertility medicine, but like all treatments, its value depends on being recommended for the right patient. Dr Rozen takes a thorough approach to assessment before recommending ICSI, ensuring that every decision is grounded in a clear understanding of each patient’s individual circumstances.

Understanding ICSI

ICSI follows the same process as IVF, but with one key difference. Rather than placing eggs and sperm together in a laboratory dish and allowing fertilisation to occur naturally, an embryologist will choose a healthy looking sperm and inject it directly into a mature egg. This highly specialised step can make the difference between fertilisation occurring or not, particularly in cases where sperm quality or quantity is a concern.

Why the laboratory behind your specialist matters

The skill of the embryologist performing the sperm injection plays a significant role in ICSI outcomes. Dr Rozen consults with Genea Fertility, whose experienced embryologists and advanced laboratory technology consistently achieve IVF and ICSI success rates above the national average.

When might ICSI be recommended?

For male factor infertility, where sperm count, motility, or morphology is significantly affected
When sperm has been surgically retrieved through TESA or TESE and the sample is limited
If fertilisation did not occur as expected in a previous standard IVF cycle

How does ICSI work? The 6 step process

1

Ovarian stimulation

Hormone injections stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs over around 10 to 14 days. Regular blood tests and ultrasounds monitor follicle development throughout.

2

Egg retrieval

Once the follicles are ready, mature eggs are collected from the ovaries under light sedation. This is the same process as a standard IVF egg retrieval.

3

Sperm collection

Sperm is collected on the same day as egg retrieval, either through ejaculation or surgical retrieval. An embryologist then selects the healthiest-looking sperm under a microscope to maximise the chances of successful fertilisation.

4

Sperm injection

A single sperm is injected into each mature egg using a fine needle. This step is performed by a specialist embryologist in the laboratory.

5

Embryo culture and transfer

Fertilised eggs are monitored as they develop into embryos over three to five days. The healthiest embryo is then selected and transferred into the uterus. Any remaining good quality embryos can be frozen for future use.

6

Pregnancy test

Around 10 days after the transfer, a blood test confirms whether the embryo has implanted and pregnancy has been achieved.

Success outcomes at a glance

Exceeds 70-80%

Average fertilisation rate per egg with ICSI, though pregnancy rates per cycle vary¹

Age matters

Success rates are higher in women under 35, as egg quality plays a significant role in outcomes²

Sperm and egg quality

The healthier the cells going into the process, the better the chances of successful fertilisation²

Underlying conditions

Certain fertility conditions can affect success rates, which is why thorough investigation matters before treatment begins

Previous IVF failure

ICSI can improve fertilisation rates for couples where standard IVF has not resulted in fertilisation²

ICSI vs IVF: Which is more expensive?

ICSI is performed as part of an IVF cycle and involves an additional laboratory fee for the sperm injection procedure itself, making it generally more expensive than standard IVF. The total cost will vary depending on the complexity of each patient’s treatment plan, whether surgical sperm retrieval or preimplantation genetic testing is required, and each patient’s Medicare safety net status. A clear breakdown of expected costs is provided once a treatment plan is established during your consultation.

Dr Rozen’s approach

Diagnostic precision

ICSI is recommended based on a thorough assessment of both partners. Understanding the underlying cause is what determines whether ICSI is the right approach.

Tailored treatment

Every cycle is planned around each patient’s specific results, history, and circumstances. There is no default protocol.

Care and support

Navigating fertility treatment, particularly after previous attempts haven’t worked, can be emotionally exhausting. Dr Rozen brings the same care and compassion to every patient, whatever stage they are at.

Areas of special interest

IVF with ICSI for male factor infertility
ICSI following surgical sperm retrieval including TESA and TESE
Recurrent IVF failure
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) as part of an IVF and ICSI cycle

Patient testimonial – Dr Genia Rozen fertility specialist

“ICSI has genuinely changed what’s possible for couples facing male infertility or previous IVF failure. Getting the right diagnosis first is what allows us to use it in a way that gives patients the best possible chance.”

– Dr Genia Rozen, Fertility Specialist, Genea Melbourne City and Frankston

References

Palermo, G. D. (2014). Understanding fertilization through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Cell Calcium, 55(1), 24–37. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ceca.2013.10.006
Genea Fertility. (2026). ICSI treatment – cost, success rates and risks. https://www.genea.com.au/pages/intracytoplasmic-sperm-injection-icsi-MCL7UJ5QGC6NB3TO6BVRWFNH4E54
Perucca, G., Draper, E. S., Ades, A., Davey, M. A., & Umstad, M. P. (2025). School-age outcomes among IVF and ICSI-conceived children: a causal inference analysis using linked population-wide data. BMC Medicine, 23, Article 210. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-025-03963-w

Frequently Asked Questions

ICSI vs IVF: What is the difference?

Both treatments involve egg retrieval, fertilisation in the laboratory, and embryo transfer. The key difference is how fertilisation occurs. In standard IVF, eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish and fertilisation happens naturally. In ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into the egg. ICSI is recommended when there is a specific concern about fertilisation, particularly in cases of male factor infertility or previous IVF failure. Overall pregnancy rates between the two are similar.

Does ICSI increase the chance of pregnancy compared to IVF?

ICSI increases fertilisation rates in cases where sperm quality is a concern, but overall pregnancy rates per cycle are similar to standard IVF. The decision to use ICSI is based on the specific circumstances of each patient.

Can frozen eggs or sperm be used in ICSI?

Yes. Both frozen eggs and frozen sperm can be used in an ICSI cycle with good success rates

Is there an increased health risk for children conceived through ICSI vs IVF?

Research shows no significant increase in long-term health risks for children conceived through ICSI compared to those conceived through standard IVF.³

What happens if ICSI is unsuccessful?

If a cycle is unsuccessful, Dr Rozen will review the outcome and discuss next steps. Many specialists suggest a thorough review after two to three unsuccessful cycles to assess whether any adjustments to the treatment approach are warranted.

How much does ICSI treatment cost?

ICSI treatment costs in Australia vary depending on the clinic and the complexity of each patient’s situation. A typical cycle includes consultation fees, medications, egg collection, laboratory costs, embryo transfer, and follow-up care. Additional costs may apply for surgical sperm retrieval or embryo freezing.

Does Medicare cover ICSI?

Medicare may cover a portion of ICSI treatment costs for eligible patients. Private health insurance does not cover IVF or ICSI procedures – the hospital component may be covered if there is an inpatient admission, but this is not the standard pathway for ICSI treatment. Dr Rozen’s team can guide you through what to expect in terms of costs and rebates at your initial consultation.