Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS)
At Eva IVF & Women’s Centre, we are committed to using the latest technologies to enhance fertility outcomes. Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) is an innovative sperm selection technique that removes damaged and apoptotic (dying) sperm, allowing only the healthiest sperm to be used for fertilization.
This technique is particularly beneficial for men with high levels of sperm DNA fragmentation, unexplained infertility, recurrent IVF failures, or recurrent pregnancy loss. By ensuring that only the best-quality sperm are used in IVF or ICSI, MACS improves embryo quality, implantation rates, and overall fertility success.
This guide is specifically for couples considering MACS as part of their fertility treatment. We’ll walk you through the procedure, who needs it, success rates, and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
What is Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS), and Who Needs It?
Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) is a sperm selection technique that uses magnetic microbeads to remove sperm with high levels of apoptosis (cell death). This allows only healthy, motile, and intact sperm to be used in fertility treatments.
Who Should Consider MACS Sperm Selection?
✔ Men with High Levels of DNA Fragmentation in Sperm
✔ Men with High Sperm Apoptosis (Programmed Cell Death)
✔ Couples with Recurrent IVF or ICSI Failures
✔ Couples with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Due to Male Factor Infertility
✔ Men with Poor Sperm Morphology or Motility (Asthenozoospermia, Teratozoospermia)
✔ Men with High Oxidative Stress Affecting Sperm Quality
✔ Men with a History of Varicocele or Testicular Infections
💡 MACS helps eliminate sperm with genetic damage, increasing the chances of healthy embryo development.
How Does MACS Sperm Selection Work? (Step-by-Step Process)
1. Semen Sample Collection & Processing
✔ A semen sample is collected and prepared using sperm-washing techniques.
✔ The sample is then mixed with magnetic microbeads coated with antibodies that target apoptotic (dying) sperm.
2. Magnetic Separation Process
✔ The sperm sample is passed through a magnetic column.
✔ Damaged sperm with apoptosis are trapped in the magnetic field, while healthy, intact sperm pass through and are collected for use in IVF or ICSI.
3. Selection of High-Quality Sperm
✔ The best-quality, non-apoptotic sperm are used for fertilization with the egg.
✔ This ensures higher-quality embryos with better development potential.
4. Fertilization via ICSI or IVF
✔ The selected sperm are used for ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) or IVF to maximize fertilization success.
💡 MACS removes defective sperm before fertilization, ensuring better embryo development and higher pregnancy success rates.
MACS vs. Other Sperm Selection Methods
💡 MACS is the only technique specifically designed to eliminate apoptotic sperm, ensuring healthier sperm for fertilization.
Success Rates of MACS Sperm Selection
How Does MACS Improve IVF & ICSI Outcomes?
✔ MACS Reduces DNA Fragmentation in Sperm by 60-90%.
✔ Increases Fertilization Rates in IVF & ICSI by 20-40%.
✔ Reduces Miscarriage Rates by 30-50% in Couples with Male Factor Infertility.
✔ Improves Embryo Quality, Leading to a 40-60% Higher Implantation Success.
✔ Reduces the Risk of Genetic Abnormalities in the Developing Embryo.
💡 MACS significantly increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy by eliminating unhealthy sperm before fertilization.
Benefits of MACS Sperm Selection – Why Choose This Treatment?
🌟 Removes Damaged and Apoptotic Sperm, Improving Fertilization Rates
🌟 Enhances Embryo Development by Selecting the Best Sperm
🌟 Reduces the Risk of Miscarriage Due to Poor Sperm Quality
🌟 Increases IVF & ICSI Success Rates by Eliminating DNA-Damaged Sperm
🌟 Best for Men with High Sperm DNA Fragmentation or Recurrent IVF Failures
💡 For couples facing male infertility, MACS offers one of the most advanced sperm selection methods available.
Who is NOT Suitable for MACS?
❌ Men with Azoospermia (No Sperm in Semen) – May Require Sperm Retrieval (TESE, Micro-TESE)
❌ Couples Without Male Factor Infertility Issues
❌ Men with Severe Genetic Mutations That Cannot Be Corrected by Sperm Selection
💡 A fertility specialist will assess sperm quality before recommending MACS.
Pre-Treatment Preparation – How to Improve Sperm Quality Before MACS?
✔ Follow a Male Fertility Diet (Rich in Antioxidants, Zinc, Omega-3, & CoQ10)
✔ Take Fertility Supplements (Vitamin C, L-Carnitine, Selenium, Folic Acid)
✔ Quit Smoking, Alcohol & Reduce Caffeine Intake
✔ Avoid Heat Exposure (No Hot Baths, Saunas, or Tight Clothing)
✔ Exercise Regularly & Maintain a Healthy Weight
💡 Improving sperm health before MACS further enhances fertility outcomes.
Post-Treatment Care – What Happens After MACS?
✔ Proceed with IVF or ICSI Using the Selected Sperm.
✔ Monitor Pregnancy Success & Embryo Development.
✔ Follow Up with a Fertility Specialist if Needed.
✔ Continue a Healthy Lifestyle to Support Sperm Health for Future Treatments.
💡 MACS offers an advanced solution for male infertility, ensuring higher success rates in assisted reproduction.