In order to attain fertilization, some couples may require special procedure such as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). This is a micromanipulation technique where a single sperm is injected into each of the mature oocyte.
Both the sperm and the oocyte are specially prepared for this procedure and then the egg is injected with a single sperm using a microscopic needle. This technique allows couples with extremely small numbers of low quality sperm to achieve fertilization and pregnancy.
Testicular / Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (TESA-MESA)
Some men suffer a blockage or other abnormality that prevents the passage of sperm through ejaculation. A minor surgical procedure can be performed where sperm is retrieved from the epididymis or directly from the testicle itself. This sperm is then injected (ICSI) into the mature eggs obtained through IVF. Sperm from Testicular / Epididymal Aspiration can be successfully cryopreserved for future use.