IMSI

What is IMSI? 

Intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection (IMSI) is a sperm selection method that can be used in an ICSI cycle. During this process, the sperms are assessed based on their morphology under very high magnification using a microscope (mich higher than with standard ICSI). This enables embryologists to visualise the vacuoles (crater like shapes) inside the sperm head, increasing the chance of injecting the egg with the most morphologically normal sperm.

Who should consider IMSI? 

IMSI may benefit patients with severe male factor infertility, in particular, those with very high abnormal forms in their sperm samples. 

Additionally, some clinics suggest it for patients with multiple failed ICSI cycles.

What does the research say? 

Research on IMSI has not consistently shown it to be more effective than standard ICSI for improving fertilization rates, embryo quality, or pregnancy outcomes. Many studies, including a comparison that found similar implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates between IMSI and ICSI, suggest no significant benefit¹.

Additionally, reviews highlight that much of the research on IMSI is of low quality and inconsistent, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions². Some small studies suggest potential benefits, but these are not enough to confirm its effectiveness³.  

Safety 

This add-on is basically an additional morphology assessment by the embryologist which is very non-invasive and does not carry any additional risk. However, cycles that include IMSI are also associated with the same risks as ICSI since it's an add-on included in the ICSI process.

myfertility’s take on IMSI 

Research on IMSI shows varied results. Due to the significant extra time IMSI takes on additional ICSI, plus the significant clinic investment on the microscope lens required, it also holds a significant extra cost on treatment (usually more than PICSI even). As such, we do not believe it is worth the extra financial burden based on the current data. 

When you're going through a challenging and emotional journey like fertility treatment, it can be tempting to try everything available. However, it's crucial to remember that more isn't always better. Over-promises on the benefits of new technologies or "add-ons" might not deliver meaningful results. That’s why we believe that being well-informed about your fertility treatment options can significantly improve your infertility treatment journey.

It's important to consult with a fertility specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation. 

If you want to learn more about the best fertility clinics for you, and which clinics do these treatments, be sure to check out our clinic finder and clinic matcher. We built these tools to help you find and match with IVF clinics and fertility specialists near you, and filter through them all based on their success rates, prices, patient reviews, technologies and support services offered. 

Find low cost IVF near you and top fertility clinics near you, and get a breakdown of all the hidden IVF costs and what to look our for. You can also join the myfertility circle on slack and chat with with other patients going through their fertility journey and our team of dedicated and experienced experts.