In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) – ICSI

Achieve pregnancy using the state-of-the-art technique with high pregnancy rates even in complex cases.

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What is an In Vitro Fertilisation-ICSI treatment?

This assisted reproduction treatment consists of stimulating the ovaries to obtain as many eggs as possible and then fertilising them in the laboratory using ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).

A spermatozoon selected based on its morphological appearance, either from the partner or from a donor, is introduced into each egg. The resulting embryos are cultured until the blastocyst stage (day 5 or 6 of development) to optimise implantation in the uterus, achieving pregnancy.

When is IVF-ICSI recommended?

Heterosexual couples

When the woman has fertility problems, a medium-low ovarian reserve or is over 35 years old. When the man has problems with sperm quality or quantity and when other treatments have failed.

LGBTQIA+ couples

With donor sperm, when the woman who is going to carry the pregnancy has a medium-low ovarian reserve, is over 35 years old or has had previous attempts at artificial insemination.

Single women

With donor sperm, when Intrauterine insemination is not suitable due to a medium-low ovarian reserve, when she is over 35 years old or has other infertility problems.

Benefits of an IVF-ICSI treatment

Success rate

It has a high pregnancy rate, solving frequent fertility problems in both partners.

Personalisation

It adapts the ovarian stimulation process to achieve the highest number of mature eggs, which gives us the best chance of achieving pregnancy.

Selection

It allows the most suitable spermatozoa to be selected in order to obtain higher-quality embryos.

Solution

It overcomes severe male infertility problems, even resorting to undergoing a testicular biopsy if necessary.

Optimisation

Increases the chances of achieving pregnancy by developing embryos to blastocyst stage.

Step-by-step guide to an IVF-ICSI treatment

With the results of the diagnostic tests and the medical history, a hormonal therapy plan is drawn up with a twofold objective: to stimulate the ovaries to produce as many mature eggs as possible and to prevent premature ovulation before the eggs are retrieved.

The duration of stimulation ranges from 8 to 11 days.

During stimulation, we monitor follicular development by means of vaginal ultrasound scans and hormone blood tests. The first ultrasound scan is performed at the beginning of the cycle and the rest during the next 10 to 12 days. Once a good number of dominant follicles are developed, the egg retrieval is scheduled.

3 to 4 controls are required during the stimulation.

When the follicles reach the right size, ovulation is induced by a subcutaneous hormone injection.

10 to 12 days after the start of the treatment.

We retrieve the oocytes in the operating room in a procedure that lasts 5 to 15 minutes, with sedation and painkillers. Each follicle is punctured to extract the liquid that will be examined by biologists to determine the presence of oocytes and whether they will be able to be used in the treatment. If a partner’s sperm is used, the man must leave the sample on the day of the retrieval. If previously frozen or donor sperm is used, it is not necessary to leave a sample.

36 hours after ovulation induction.

We carry out a morphological selection of the best spermatozoa in the laboratory and microinject one into each mature egg.

ICSI achieves excellent fertilisation rates.

Our biologists monitor the embryos for the next 5 to 6 days, using state-of-the-art incubators, to cultivate as many embryos as possible to blastocyst stage.

Blastocysts have a higher implantation capacity.

Using Artificial Intelligence, the best embryo available is selected and loaded into a fine catheter and introduced into the uterus. Before resuming a normal routine, the patient rests for a few minutes.

The embryo transfer takes approximately 15 minutes.

We vitrify and preserve the embryos that have not been transferred so that they can be used in subsequent transfers if necessary, or when you wish to seek a new pregnancy.

2 years of storage is included in the treatment.

12 days after the embryo transfer, a blood test (Beta-hCG) is carried out to check for pregnancy. If the result is positive, the patient should go for an early pregnancy ultrasound scan to confirm everything is correct. Two weeks later, the patient should go for another follow-up ultrasound scan.

Approximately 12 days after the embryo transfer.

Techniques included


Genetic compatibility study
We perform a DNA test on both parents (or donors, if applicable) to detect whether they share the same mutations that could be passed on to the baby. Although most people are healthy carriers without knowing it, when there is a match in the same genetic alteration, the risk of inherited disease increases. This test makes it possible to identity more then 16,000 potential mutations before starting treatment and, if necessary, adapt the reproductive strategy to reduce risks. It is an essential test that provides safety and peace of mind from the very beginning of the process.
Matcher System
An advanced electronic traceability system that ensures the correct identification of all biological samples at every stage of treatment. Using barcodes and electronic verification, the correspondence between the patients and the samples is automatically verified before any procedure. This system provides complete control and added peace of mind for the medical team.
Sperm selection techniques
Sperm quality is a determining factor in the success of treatment. For this reason, we apply the most advanced sperm selection techniques that make it possible to identify and isolate the sperm with the highest fertilisation chances. Using techniques such as MACS, Zimot or FertileChip, we aim to remove those sperm with DNA fragmentation or lower viability, selecting the most suitable in terms of their mobility, morphology and genetic integrity.
Sperm Cryopreservation
A process that allows sperm to be preserved when the male partner is unable to provide a sample on the day of fertilisation. A semen sample is collected and treated with cryoprotectants to prevent cellular damage during cooling. The sample is then frozen at very low temperatures (-196ºC) using liquid nitrogen and is recorded and stored in our sperm bank. From that point on, it can be used whenever the patients require it for their treatment, without compromising its quality over time.
In Vitro Maturation and freezing of eggs
During the egg retrieval, it is common to obtain both mature and immature eggs. Rather than discarding them, we make the most of their potential through the use of in vitro maturation (IVM). This technique consists of culturing immature eggs under controlled laboratory conditions to support their development until they reach maturity. Those that successfully mature can then be vitrified and used in the future, thereby increasing the patient’s reproductive opportunities without the need for additional stimulation. These eggs have a lower developmental potential and are therefore not included in the minimum number required to proceed with ICSI. However, they represent a valuable additional reserve that can sometimes make a significant difference in the final outcome of the treatment.
Oocyte activation using calcium ionophores
Following ICSI, the oocyte is exposed to a solution that promotes its activation through a controlled calcium influx, enhancing the initiation of fertilization and subsequent embryo development. This technique may improve fertilization rates in cases of previous fertilization failure or severe male factor infertility.
Blastocyst Culture
At IGIN, we systematically culture all embryos to the blastocyst stage (day 5-6), a more advanced phase of development in which the embryo reaches greater cellular complexity and its quality can be assessed more accurately. This process makes it possible to identify the embryos with the highest developmental capacity and implantation potential. In addition, it improves synchronization with the endometrium, creating optimal conditions for embryo transfer and enhancing the chances of pregnancy.
Embryoscope+ with Time-Lapse technology
Embryoscope+ is a state-of-the-art incubator that provides the best possible environment for embryo development up to the blastocyst stage. It maintains optimal temperature, humidity and gas conditions to support embryo growth through to the blastocyst stage.

It incorporates time-lapse technology, allowing continuous image capture and monitoring without the need to remove the embryos from the incubator, thereby avoiding any disruption to their environment.This real-time monitoring enables us to observe every cell division and analyze embryo development with a level of detail that conventional methods cannot achieve. As a result, embryo selection becomes more precise, increasing the chances of implantation.
Artificial Intelligence: IDAScore and KIDScore
We apply advanced artificial intelligence systems that take embryo selection to a new level. IDAScore (Intelligent Data Analysis) and KIDScore (Known Implantation Data) are algorithms based on morphokinetic analysis that study the development of each embryo and compare it with millions of data points worldwide. These systems assess not only morphology, but also the timing and patterns of cell division, identifying the embryos with the highest implantation potential. This information enables our embryologists to make more objective and precise decisions, increasing the likelihood of success with each transfer.
Single Embryo Transfer (SET)
Thanks to advanced embryo selection and blastocyst culture, we are able to perform Single Embryo Transfer (SET), a strategy aimed at achieving pregnancy while minimizing the risks associated with multiple gestation. This approach enhances safety for both the mother and the baby by reducing complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Personalized embryo transfer
The transfer can be carried out using a fresh or frozen cycle, adapting to the characteristics and needs of each patient. This allows the optimal timing for implantation to be chosen, either by taking advantage of the patient’s natural hormonal cycle or through controlled endometrial preparation. Adapting the strategy instead of following a standard protocol significantly improves the chances of success and reduces the risk of implantation failure, offering a truly personalized approach.
Cryopreservation and storage of vitrified embryos and eggs
Vitrification is an ultra-rapid cryopreservation technique that prevents the formation of ice crystals, protecting the cellular structure of embryos and eggs during storage. This allows them to be kept in optimal conditions for long periods, facilitating their use in future attempts or to expand the family later on.
At IGIN, you will have two years of storage included for the vitrified eggs and embryos obtained during your treatment. You can use them whenever you decide.
In addition, the storage of embryos and gametes will always depend on your decision to continue preserving them. Unlike there clinics, no costs are incurred and you will not pay any fees if you choose not to continue with storage.
Luteal phase hormonal monitoring and thyroid function
Progesterone testing allows us to assess the progression of the luteal phase and the adequate preparation of the endometrium for implantation. In addition, we perform blood tests to ensure optimal hormonal support levels.

The evaluation of TSH (thyroid function) in patients with a history of thyroid abnormalities complements this assessment, as proper thyroid balance is essential for ovulation, endometrial receptivity and the early development of pregnancy.
Endometrial Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
It is an innovative technique that uses the patients own biological resources to improve endometrial receptivity in certain situations. From a blood sample, a platelet concentrate rich in growth factors is obtained. These factors help stimulate the regeneration and repair of the endometrial tissue. It is a simple and quick procedure, particularly beneficial for patients with a thin endometrium, low receptivity or previous implantation failures associated with those over 45 years old, whenever the medical team consider it may be beneficial.
Specialised transfer media
In cases of implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage, during embryo transfer we use next-generation media designed to mimic the natural conditions of the uterus and support implantation. These media create an optimal environment during the transition of the embryo from the laboratory to the uterus, helping maintain its stability and viability during this particularly critical phase.
At IGIN we use EmbryoGlue, a hyaluronan enriched medium. Its composition enhances the interaction between the embryo and the endometrium, facilitating adhesion and increasing the chances of implantation.
We also use cytokine-enriched media, which contain proteins that act as cellular messengers and regulate communication between the embryo and the endometrium, as essential process for implantation and for creating a more receptive environment.
Early pregnancy scan monitoring
After pregnancy is confirmed, we monitor two ultrasound pregnancy scans to verify the correct progression of the pregnancy during its first weeks. This follow-up allows us to confirm implantation, assess embryonic development, and support the patient during a key stage of the process, ensuring continuity of care from the same clinic and providing reassurance from the very first positive result.
«Pregnancy loss» Cariotest
Up to 70% of early pregnancy losses are related to chromosomal abnormalities. Knowing the cause provides answers during a particularly difficult time and allows for the assessment of recurrence risk, helping to guide the next steps in treatment. The Cariotest ´Pregnancy Loss’ is an advanced genetic test that analyzes fetal DNA from a maternal blood sample, without the need for invasive procedures. It allows us to obtain reliable information even in very early stages of pregnancy, assessing the risk of recurrence and helping to define the best strategy for future treatments.
Transfer of embryos and samples
When a patient choose to undergo treatment at IGIN, we include the safe and controlled transfer of embryos, eggs and sperm from the originating clinic, hospital or laboratory at no additional cost.

If the patient wishes to transfer their embryos and/or samples from IGIN to another center, we take care of preparing, processing and protecting the material for transport. We do not charge for this service. In addition, we can advise the patient on selecting the most appropriate transport company, which may involve an associated cost depending on the required service.

Pregnancy success rate of an IVF-ICSI treatment

The use of latest technology and total customisation of stimulation procedures allow us to obtain above-average success rates. This is our cumulative pregnancy rate per cycle for IVF-ICSI, with clinical discharge at eight weeks.

79%

IVF-ICSI cost and financing

Our closed treatment package includes all of the techniques you may need to help achieve pregnancy. There may be the option to pay the total cost in instalments without any interest.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) – ICSI

5.985€

The eggs are fertilized in a laboratory to transfer the best possible embryo to you.

  • Case orientation consultation and cycle planning
  • Genetic compatibility study of 16,592 mutations (both parents)
  • Ultrasound and hormonal controls (unlimited)
  • Follicular puncture – aspiration
  • Laboratory procedures
  • IMT Matcher: for electronic identification and traceability of genetic samples
  • In Vitro Fertilization by ICSI
  • Sperm selection techniques: FertileChip, PICSI, MACS, Zymot, Microfluidics (if necessary)
  • Laser assisted hatching (if necessary)
  • Embryo culture (day 0 to 6) up to blastocyst stage using Embryoscope+ with time-lapse included (unlimited)
  • KIDScore / IDAScore (AI for embryonic selection)
  • IVM (In Vitro Maturation) of oocytes and their vitrification, including 2 years storage
  • Oocyte activation using calcium ionophores (if necessary)

  • Embryo transfer (1 or 2 embryos)
  • PRP Platelet Rich Plasma (if necessary)
  • Progesterone monitoring pre-/post-transfer
  • Specific transfer media (if necessary)
  • Vitrification of unused embryos (unlimited)
  • BHCG – pregnancy detection tests (unlimited)
  • Two gestational checks
  • Cryopreservation and storage of vitrified embryos for 2 years
  • Donor semen (vitrified samples) has an increase of €435
Book your free consultationCost breakdown

We love hearing success stories like these

We arrived at IGIN with our confidence at rock bottom after having done 4 IVF cycles in other clinics. We were convinced that an egg donation would be necessary. But after studying our case they discovered new factors and gave us hope. And one treatment later… we completed our family.

Almudena and Luis

With my family and personal background I knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but there is nothing this great team can’t achieve. Thank you for never giving up and fighting to give me the best of my life.

Pilar C.

I am writing this with Sofía in my arms, there is nothing more I can say. Without IGIN, this would not have been possible.

Joana

Your free consultation

We want to resolve any doubts you may have about In Vitro Fertilisation and also invite you to check the state of your reproductive health. For this reason, we offer you a reproductive consultation in which we will carry out a fertility study free of charge and without obligation.

Book your free consultation

FAQs about IVF-ICSI


What is an IVF-ICSI treatment?
IVF-ICSI (In Vitro Fertilisation with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is an advanced fertility treatment in which a sperm is injected directly into the egg to achieve fertilisation in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is then transferred into the uterus to achieve pregnancy.
What are the success rates of an IVF-ICSI treatment?
Success rates vary depending on factors such as the patient’s age, the cause of infertility and the quality of the embryos. Overall, IVF-ICSI in IGIN has a cumulative pregnancy rate per cycle of 79%.
How long does a complete IVF-ICSI cycle take?
A complete IVF-ICSI cycle, from ovarian stimulation to the pregnancy test, lasts approximately 4 to 5 weeks.
What is ovarian stimulation?
It is a fundamental and integral procedure of treatments such as In Vitro Fertilisation. It consists of administering hormonal medication to the woman in order to increase the production of mature oocytes in her ovaries. Normally, a woman produces only one egg during her menstrual cycle. However, in an assisted reproduction cycle the aim is to stimulate the ovaries to obtain the maximum number of mature oocytes present in that cycle, which will be crucial to go ahead with the treatment and increase the chances of success.
How does ovarian stimulation work?
The ovarian stimulation process begins with a thorough evaluation of the patient to determine the most appropriate hormonal protocol. This includes ultrasound scans, hormone testing, and other studies to assess ovarian function and the overall health of the reproductive system. Once the personalised protocol is established, the patient begins to administer (usually at home) medication. The medications are hormone-based (urinary or recombinant gonadotropins). During the stimulation process, the patient is monitored by ultrasound and/or blood tests to control the response of her ovaries to the treatment and to achieve the appropriate follicular size. It may be necessary to make adjustments to the dose of medication to optimise the results. This phase usually lasts between 10 and 12 days.
Do I have to do anything special during the ovarian stimulation phase, and are there any risks?
Lifestyles don´t need to change. You can continue with your usual routine (work, sport, leisure…). It is advisable, however, to rest and avoid toxic substances (tobacco, alcohol and drugs). You may experience symptoms similar to premenstrual symptoms, as the medication alters the hormonal load. You may notice pain in the ovaries, swelling in the abdomen, changes in vaginal discharge, or slight discomfort in the head and breasts. Beyond this, there are no risks or dangers to your health or future fertility.
Can I know the quality of the eggs before starting treatment?
The quality of the eggs cannot be determined beforehand by any technique (analytical or ultrasound). Eggs of varying quality are found in the ovary and it is during the fertilisation process that the individual quality of each egg is determined. It is, however, possible to orientate oneself according to certain parameters. The most important is age. And there are pathologies that can reduce the quality of eggs, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome. But they are only indicative and we will rarely be able to determine with certainty the quality of the oocytes before the treatment is carried out.
Can I know how many eggs I am going to obtain in the egg retrieval?
As with quality, the quantity of eggs in the puncture is not something we can know exactly, as there are many fluctuations between a woman’s cycles. There are indicators, such as the anti-mullerian hormone, which give us clues as to the possible quantity of eggs that can be found. But this is only an indication and it will not be until the procedure itself that we will know.
What is egg retrieval like and does it hurt?
It is a simple procedure that is usually completed in about ten minutes, but can vary depending on the number of follicles present. It is usually performed under sedation and intravenous painkillers under the constant supervision of an anaesthetist. The recovery period afterwards lasts one to two hours. Slight bleeding sometimes occurs, which is completely normal. Discomfort in the form of pelvic discomfort may persist into the next day, but is usually controlled with oral analgesia (Paracetamol or Nolotil). Normal routine activity should be possible the next day.
Is it necessary to take medication after the egg retrieval?
After egg retrieval your doctor may prescribe additional hormone therapy in order to help embryo implantation and support possible gestation. These medications may include progesterone (plays an important role in supporting the endometrium during pregnancy) and/or azithromycin (an antibiotic usually given orally the day before the follicular puncture, to prevent infection).
What is a blastocyst?
Blastocyst is the stage of the embryo where a complex cellular structure is formed; it is made up of an inner cell mass from which the embryo originates and a peripheral layer of cells that will form the future placenta. This structure can be seen on the 5th or 6th day of life of the embryos. It is at this stage that the embryo has the highest probability of implantation, which is why at IGIN we take all our embryos to blastocyst.
How is the embryo to be transferred chosen?
Among the embryos that reach blastocyst, our embryologists make a precise selection in which they assess factors such as the number of cells and their quality. To optimise this process at IGIN we incorporate world-leading technology: KIDSCore and IDASCore. Artificial Intelligence and morphokinetic algorithms analyse each of the embryos, contrasting them with information gathered from millions of embryos from all over the world and relating their development patterns with their implantation capacity. This helps the lab team to choose the most promising embryo in terms of evolutionary potential.
Can I become a mother through IVF with my own eggs after the age of 40?
Yes, it is possible to become a mother at that age. But getting pregnant is more complicated. As women get older, our ovarian reserve diminishes, which causes the oocytes to present a greater number of genetic mutations, making pregnancy more difficult. This is why a large number of pregnancies after the age of 40 are achieved through assisted reproduction treatments. With adequate preparation and the correct In Vitro Fertilisation techniques it is possible to achieve this, although you should know that it is mandatory to carry out a Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis to detect anomalies in the genetic material of the embryos before their transfer.
Can I travel, exercise or drink alcohol after the transfer?
There are no problems driving or boarding a plane after the embryo transfer. It is recommended to wait two days after the embryo transfer if you do any high-impact sports. Everyday physical activities can be carried out without any problem. Alcohol is not recommended.
Do I have to change my diet in any particular way during my IVF-ICSI treatment?
During reproduction and pregnancy treatments, try to eat a varied and balanced diet. Do not abuse carbohydrate-rich foods such as pasta, rice and bread. Nor is it recommended to eat highly processed products. Avoid raw foods and alcohol.
Is it possible to have sexual intercourse during treatment?
Yes, if the partner has to leave a semen sample at the clinic, we will inform you a few days beforehand so that you can observe the period of abstinence. The rest of the time you can have normal intercourse.
Is it normal to experience spotting as the date of the pregnancy test (Beta) approaches?
It is common. Up to 80% of patients who undergo embryo transfer may have vaginal spotting that can even be confused with the onset of menstruation or embryo implantation. For this reason, vaginal bleeding at this time does not allow us to determine whether the pregnancy test will be positive or negative. You must continue taking all medication and follow the guidelines without varying the dosage until you have the results of the pregnancy test. In case of spotting, it is recommended not to have sexual intercourse and not to do high-intensity sports. Bed rest is not necessary.
How long will I have to stay on the medication if I am pregnant?
Each patient has a personalised therapeutic plan that is tailored to their individual needs. This means that some medications may be stopped at week 12, for example, but others will be maintained throughout the entire pregnancy. Once discharged from the clinic, we send you a report by email explaining to you how long you will need to continue taking each medication.

Clínica de Fecundación in Vitro IGIN: Un equipo médico a tu disposición


Somos una clínica especializada en aplicar tratamientos de Fecundación In Vitro (FIV)-ICSI personalizados y con las mejores tasas de embarazo. Nuestro equipo médico acompaña a cada paciente con un tratamiento individualizado y con el uso de la última tecnología en medicina reproductiva.

Especialistas en FIV e ICSI de primer nivel


Contamos con ginecólogos, embriólogos y especialistas en fertilidad con amplia experiencia en tratamientos FIV-ICSI y casos complejos. Trabajamos de forma coordinada para diseñar protocolos totalmente personalizados, adaptados a las necesidades médicas de cada paciente.

Tecnología de vanguardia en nuestros laboratorios propios


Disponemos de laboratorios propios equipados con tecnología de última generación para optimizar las probabilidades de éxito en nuestros tratamientos de FIV-ICSI. Incorporamos, sin costes añadidos, tecnologías avanzadas que marcan la diferencia cuando cada detalle importa: cultivo a blastocisto, incubadores time-lapse Embryoscope+ con sistemas de Inteligencia Artificial, Plasma Rico en Plaquetas, estudios de compatibilidad, técnicas avanzadas de selección espermática y otras técnicas de reproducción asistida de vanguardia cuando el caso lo requiere.

Tu clínica de fecundación in vitro en España


IGIN cuenta con clínicas de reproducción en Bilbao, Madrid, Donostia, Vitoria, Santander, Salamanca y Pamplona. Ayudamos a pacientes de toda España a cumplir su deseo de formar una familia, partiendo de una consulta de reproducción gratis y sin compromiso. Además, somos expertos en medicina reproductiva a distancia. Si no puedes acercarte a nuestra clínica pero quieres nuestra opinión, podemos realizar sin coste una consulta médica por videoconferencia.