Intracytoplasmic sperm injection vs. in vitro fertilization – which is more effective in older women with infertility?

This study investigated the effectiveness of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) compared to in vitro fertilization (IVF) in older women.

They found that fertilization rates were similar with ICSI and in vitro fertilization (IVF) in this group of patients. 

Assisted reproductive techniques (ART) is used to treat infertility. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most well-known ART. Sperm is incubated with the egg in a dish. This can lead to fertilization. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is another type of ART. ICSI involves directly injecting sperm into the egg. ICSI was initially developed to treat male infertility.

ICSI is also used in IVF procedures with female infertility. Some studies suggest there are higher fertilization rates with ICSI. Most of these studies have focused on younger women. It is unclear if ICSI vs IVF has higher fertilization rates in older women.

This study analyzed 7 clinical reports on ICSI use. This included 8796 retrieved oocytes (eggs). The women in these studies were aged 38 or older on average. The cause of infertility was female. ICSI and conventional IVF (IVF) were compared. The main outcome was fertilization rates. 

There was no difference in fertilization rates between ICSI and IVF. Women in the ICSI and IVF groups had similar responses to treatment. The average number of oocytes retrieved was 2.8 (IVF) and 2.7 (ICSI). The use of mature eggs did not affect fertilization rates. 

The authors concluded that fertilization rates were similar with ICSI and IVF in older women experiencing infertility.

There was some variability in the data. Some information was not available. The quality of the studies ranged from poor to good. More controlled studies are needed. 

If you have any concerns regarding infertility please consult with your doctor.