If the sperm sample is of lower quality, we may recommend ICSI. This is a more specialised IVF technique where a single sperm is carefully injected directly into each mature egg.
Because ICSI is more complex, there are a few important differences:
- Only mature eggs can be used, which may reduce the number available for fertilisation
- The process is more specialised
For these reasons, we usually recommend IVF where possible, and only suggest ICSI when it is likely to improve your chances of fertilisation.
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority provides more detailed information about ICSI, including potential risks.
You can read full information in the IVF/ICSI Information for Patients Having Treatment leaflet in the resources section of the website.
