What is IMSI? Advanced Fertility Treatment Explained

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What is IMSI? Advanced Fertility Treatment Explained

Jul 16, 2025

For couples trying to conceive through assisted reproductive techniques, every step in the journey matters. When previous attempts at fertilisation have failed or the quality of embryos has been poor, it’s only natural to look for better solutions. IMSI treatment, a refinement in the way sperm are selected during IVF, can bring a sense of relief and renewed hope to such couples. At BirthRight By Rainbow Hospitals, we are proud to offer this cutting-edge procedure that adds another layer of precision to the IVF process. This precision, coupled with our expert care, can instil confidence in potential patients about the effectiveness of IMSI treatment, improving the chances of a successful IVF embryo transfer.

What is IMSI Treatment?

IMSI stands for Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection. It is an advanced version of ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), commonly used in IVF. While ICSI involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg, IMSI goes a step further by selecting that sperm with ultra-high magnification up to 6000 times, compared to the 200–400 times used in conventional ICSI. This enhanced magnification allows fertility specialists to observe even the tiniest structural abnormalities in the sperm head. Sperm with visible defects are ruled out, and only the most ideal ones are used for fertilisation. This improves the chances of creating a healthy embryo that can successfully implant during the IVF embryo transfer stage.

Why IMSI Treatment Matters?

Not all sperm are created equal. Even in men with a normal sperm count, a large percentage of sperm may have abnormalities that are invisible under standard magnification. These tiny imperfections can affect the DNA integrity of the sperm, leading to failed fertilisation, poor embryo development, or miscarriage. IMSI treatment improves the selection process by allowing embryologists to choose sperm that are structurally normal and more likely to result in a successful pregnancy. However, it's important to note that like any medical procedure, IMSI treatment also has potential risks and limitations. This method has shown encouraging outcomes, especially for couples who have had unsuccessful IVF cycles or recurrent implantation failures.

Who Should Consider IMSI Treatment?

IMSI is not routinely used in all fertility cases. However, it may be beneficial in the following situations:
  • Couples with a history of failed IVF or ICSI cycles
  • Men with a high percentage of abnormally shaped sperm (teratozoospermia)
  • High levels of DNA fragmentation in sperm
  • Couples experiencing recurrent miscarriages
  • Cases of unexplained infertility where standard approaches have not worked
If you have gone through IVF before and the embryos failed to implant or stopped growing early, IMSI might offer the extra layer of precision your treatment needs.

How IMSI Treatment Works?

The steps involved in IMSI treatment are similar to ICSI, with one key difference in sperm selection:

Egg Retrieval: The woman undergoes controlled ovarian stimulation, and mature eggs are collected.

Advanced Sperm Selection: Using high-resolution digital imaging and a powerful microscope, the embryologist examines thousands of sperm to find those with perfect shape and smooth nuclear structure.

Fertilisation: The best-looking sperm is injected directly into each mature egg.

Embryo Development: The fertilised eggs are monitored closely for cell division and quality.

IVF Embryo Transfer: A healthy embryo is selected and transferred into the uterus with the goal of implantation and pregnancy.

Benefits of IMSI Treatment

Improved Sperm Quality: Allows for accurate identification of structurally normal sperm

Higher Fertilisation Rates: Better sperm means better chances of successful fertilisation

Better Embryo Quality: Results in embryos with higher implantation potential

Lower Miscarriage Rates: Healthier sperm can reduce the risk of chromosomal abnormalities

Enhanced Success With IVF Embryo Transfer: Boosts the likelihood of achieving a pregnancy

Why IMSI and IVF Embryo Transfer Is A Powerful Combination?

Embryo transfer is one of the most critical moments in an IVF cycle. Even if fertilisation has taken place, the quality of the embryo plays a considerable role in whether it implants in the uterus and leads to a successful pregnancy. IMSI treatment helps at the very beginning of this chain by giving the embryo the best possible genetic foundation. When a morphologically healthy sperm fertilises an egg, the resulting embryo will likely thrive. This provides IVF with embryo transfer a better chance of working, reducing the number of attempts needed and the emotional toll involved.

Why Choose BirthRight By Rainbow Hospitals for IMSI Treatment?

At BirthRight By Rainbow Hospitals, we understand the emotional and physical demands of fertility treatment. Our experienced team of fertility specialists and embryologists uses the latest technologies, including IMSI, to support couples in their dream of becoming parents. Every couple receives a personalised treatment plan, guided by thorough testing, transparency, and compassion. Our labs are equipped with advanced imaging microscopes used exclusively for IMSI, and we take utmost care during every stage of the IVF process, from sperm selection to IVF embryo transfer to maximise your chances of success.
Our labs are equipped with advanced imaging microscopes used exclusively for IMSI, and we take utmost care during every stage of the IVF process, from sperm selection to IVF embryo transfer to maximise your chances of success.
When it comes to fertility care, every detail matters. With IMSI treatment at BirthRight By Rainbow Hospitals, you are not just getting a procedure you are receiving expert guidance, advanced technology, and a team committed to walking with you, every step of the way.
If you are exploring options beyond standard IVF, our team is here to help you find the right approach, because we believe every couple deserves the joy of parenthood.

For More Information and Appointments, Please Call:

FAQs

1. How is IMSI different from ICSI?

IMSI uses a powerful microscope to select sperm with the best shape and structure before injection, whereas ICSI uses lower magnification. This means IMSI allows for better sperm selection, which may lead to improved embryo quality and IVF success.

2. What is the success rate of IMSI treatment?

Success rates vary by patient age and fertility history, but IMSI may increase fertilisation and implantation rates by 10–15% compared to standard ICSI in selected cases. It also shows promise in reducing miscarriage rates due to better sperm quality.

3. What is the cost of IMSI treatment in India?

IMSI treatment typically adds an extra ₹20,000 to ₹40,000 on top of standard IVF costs, depending on the clinic and lab equipment. Rainbow Hospitals offers advanced IMSI technology with transparent pricing as part of our personalized fertility care.



Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, symptoms, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.

Dr. Vadlapati Saroja

Consultant - Infertility Specilaist

Rainbow Children's Hospital

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