IVF & ICSI: what they are and who can benefit
In vitro fertilization (IVF) combines eggs and sperm in the lab to create embryos. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an add-on where one sperm is injected directly into the egg to improve fertilization in selected cases. These treatments can help couples and individuals facing male factor infertility, low egg reserve, tubal blockage, endometriosis, or unexplained infertility.
How IVF & ICSI work — step by step
- 1) Ovarian stimulation: daily injections to grow multiple follicles, with ultrasound and blood test monitoring.
- 2) Egg retrieval: a minor, day-procedure under sedation to collect mature eggs.
- 3) Fertilization: standard IVF (eggs mixed with prepared sperm) or ICSI (a single sperm injected into each mature egg) when indicated.
- 4) Embryo culture: embryos develop in the laboratory for 3–5 days.
- 5) Embryo transfer: a soft catheter places one embryo into the uterus. Extra high-quality embryos may be vitrified (frozen) for future use.
When is ICSI used?
ICSI is commonly used when sperm count, movement, or shape is very low; after surgical sperm retrieval; with previous poor fertilization; or in some cases using frozen/thawed eggs. Your plan is individualized after a fertility work-up.
Safety and international guidance
Our protocols follow leading guidance from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) on appropriate ICSI use and the ESHRE guideline on ovarian stimulation for IVF/ICSI covering monitoring and OHSS prevention.
Why choose IVF & ICSI with Dr. Ashraf Sabry in Cairo?
- Personalized plans after a complete fertility check-up.
- Embryology quality aligned with international recommendations and lab best practices.
- Elective single embryo transfer approach when suitable to reduce multiple pregnancy risk.
- Continuity of care from consultation to pregnancy follow-up in Cairo/Giza.
Who is a good candidate?
- Women with blocked fallopian tubes or moderate–severe endometriosis.
- Low sperm count or motility; prior IVF with low fertilization (consider ICSI).
- Unexplained infertility after appropriate testing.
- Fertility preservation plans (freeze embryos now; transfer later).
Possible risks (we discuss and minimize)
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) — mitigated by careful dosing, close monitoring, and trigger choices.
- Multiple pregnancy — reduced through evidence-based single embryo transfer when appropriate.
- Procedure-related (egg retrieval, transfer) — usually minor and short-lived.
Costs, success & expectations
Outcomes vary by age, egg reserve, sperm quality, and embryo grade. We set realistic expectations at your first visit and tailor next steps if cycles need adjusting. For some families, options like gender selection or embryo genetic testing (PGD/PGT) may be discussed when clinically appropriate.
How to start
Begin with a consultation and basic testing. If you live abroad, you can start via our online clinic, then plan travel to Cairo for key steps.
Patient reviews
See patient feedback and location on Google Maps, book through Vezeeta, or check independent ratings on WhatClinic.
Why choose Dr. Ashraf Sabry?
Dr. Ashraf Sabry, Fertility & OBGYN Consultant & Cosmetic Gynecology Surgeon, is the best doctor in IVF & ICSI thanks to 17+ years of experience and use of the latest guidelines. Based in Giza & Cairo, Egypt. Book now through the CONTACT US page, or WHATSAPP US or CALL US on +201022224442.
