Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI)
At Eva IVF & Women’s Centre, we understand that male infertility is a major factor in conception challenges. Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI) is an advanced technique that helps select the best-quality sperm for fertilization, improving the chances of a successful pregnancy.
IMSI is a refinement of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) but uses high-magnification microscopy to examine sperm in much greater detail before injecting it into the egg. This results in higher fertilization rates, improved embryo quality, and increased pregnancy success.
This guide is specifically for couples considering IMSI as part of their fertility treatment. We’ll walk you through the process, who needs it, benefits, and success rates to help you make an informed decision.
What is IMSI, and Who Needs It?
Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI) is an advanced sperm selection technique used in IVF treatments to improve fertilization success. It involves the use of a high-powered microscope (6000x magnification) to select the healthiest and most genetically normal sperm for fertilization.
Who Should Consider IMSI?
✔ Men with High Levels of Abnormal Sperm Morphology (Teratozoospermia)
✔ Couples Who Have Experienced Repeated IVF/ICSI Failures
✔ Men with Poor Sperm Quality, Low Motility, or High DNA Fragmentation
✔ Men with a History of Recurrent Miscarriages Due to Sperm Abnormalities
✔ Men with High Levels of Oxidative Stress That Can Damage Sperm DNA
✔ Couples Seeking Higher Embryo Quality and Increased Pregnancy Success
💡 IMSI is highly recommended for men with severe sperm defects who need a more precise sperm selection method than ICSI.
Difference Between IMSI and ICSI
While ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a standard method of sperm injection in IVF treatments, IMSI offers a more advanced sperm selection process by using a high-magnification microscope.
💡 IMSI is ideal for couples who have experienced repeated IVF failures due to poor sperm quality.
Step-by-Step IMSI Process
1. Sperm Collection & Preparation
✔ The sperm is placed under a high-powered microscope (6000x magnification).
2. Morphological Sperm Selection
✔ Sperm with the best morphology (healthy DNA, no vacuoles, strong motility) is selected for fertilization.
3. Intracytoplasmic Injection
✔ Fertilization takes place, and the resulting embryos are monitored for 3-5 days.
4. Embryo Transfer & Pregnancy Test
✔ A pregnancy test is conducted 12-14 days after transfer to confirm implantation success.
💡 IMSI increases the chances of fertilization and embryo development by selecting only the best-quality sperm.
Success Rates of IMSI
📊 How Does IMSI Improve IVF Outcomes?
✔ IMSI Increases Fertilization Rates – Success rates rise from 60% (ICSI) to 70-80% (IMSI).
✔ IMSI Reduces Miscarriage Rates – Lowers miscarriage risk by 30-50% compared to standard IVF/ICSI.
✔ IMSI Enhances Embryo Quality – Leads to stronger, healthier embryos with higher implantation rates.
✔ IMSI Boosts Pregnancy Success Rates – Couples with severe male infertility see a 40-60% increase in live birth rates.
💡 By selecting the best sperm, IMSI significantly improves embryo development and pregnancy success rates.
Benefits of IMSI – Why Choose This Treatment?
🌟 Higher Fertilization & Pregnancy Rates – Helps couples with previous IVF failures achieve success.
🌟 Better Embryo Quality – Healthier sperm leads to stronger embryos.
🌟 Lower Miscarriage Risk – Reduces chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.
🌟 Best for Men with Severe Sperm Defects – A more advanced selection method than ICSI.
💡 For couples struggling with male infertility, IMSI is one of the most effective fertility treatments available.
Pre-Treatment Preparation – How to Improve Sperm Quality Before IMSI?
✔ Follow a Nutrient-Rich Diet (Zinc, Folic Acid, Omega-3, Antioxidants)
✔ Take Male Fertility Supplements (CoQ10, Vitamin C, L-Carnitine, Selenium)
✔ Quit Smoking, Alcohol & Avoid High Temperatures (Hot Baths, Saunas)
✔ Manage Stress & Sleep Well – Reduces Oxidative Stress in Sperm
✔ Exercise Regularly – Improves Blood Flow to Reproductive Organs
💡 Sperm quality can improve within 2-3 months of a healthy lifestyle change.
Post-Treatment Care – What Happens After IMSI?
✔ Monitor Pregnancy Progress with Early Ultrasounds & Blood Tests
✔ Continue Prenatal Medications to Support Embryo Implantation
✔ Follow a Balanced Diet & Stay Active for Better Pregnancy Outcomes
✔ Attend Follow-Up Visits to Track IVF Progress
💡 With IMSI, the risk of embryo implantation failure is reduced, leading to a healthier pregnancy.