What is PICSI?
PICSI (Physiological Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a technique used alongside IVF to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy. It works by mimicking the body’s natural process of selecting the healthiest sperm. In PICSI, sperm are chosen based on their ability to bind to hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural substance that surrounds the egg. Only mature sperm with intact DNA can attach to HA, which helps ensure that high-quality sperm are used during fertilization.
How is PICSI performed?
During the PICSI procedure, sperm are placed in a dish containing hyaluronic acid (HA). Embryologists then identify and select the sperm that naturally bind to the HA, as this indicates maturity and better DNA integrity. These selected sperm are then used for injection into the egg during Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). By choosing higher-quality sperm, PICSI helps reduce the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
What are the benefits of using PICSI?
PICSI has been shown in studies¹ to reduce the risk of miscarriage and improve overall pregnancy outcomes. It is especially beneficial for couples who have experienced repeated ICSI failures or for older couples, where sperm quality may be a contributing factor.
Who may benefit from PICSI?
PICSI is particularly recommended for the following situations:
- Patients who have high levels of sperm DNA fragmentation
- Patients who have experienced multiple failed IVF or ICSI cycles
- Patients with a history of recurrent miscarriages
- Unexplained infertility
¹ West, R., et al. (2022). Sperm selection with hyaluronic acid improved live birth outcomes among older couples and was connected to sperm DNA quality, potentially affecting all treatment outcomes. Human Reproduction, 37(6), 1106–1125.
