What is Physiological Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (PICSI)?
PICSI, or Physiological Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is an advanced form of the ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) procedure used in fertility treatments. While traditional ICSI selects sperm based on appearance and motility, PICSI goes a step further by selecting biologically mature sperm that are more likely to result in successful fertilization and healthy embryo development.
At Simran IVF®, we are proud to offer PICSI as part of our advanced reproductive technologies. It provides new hope for couples struggling with male factor infertility, recurrent IVF failures, or unexplained infertility.
Why is PICSI Performed?
Not all sperm are created equal. While many sperm may appear normal under a microscope, only biologically mature sperm have the full capacity for fertilization and embryo development. Immature sperm may carry damaged DNA or chromosomal abnormalities, which can lead to poor embryo quality or even miscarriage.
PICSI is designed to identify and select sperm that naturally bind to hyaluronic acid (HA)—a compound found around the egg during natural fertilization. Sperm that bind to HA are considered mature, with better DNA integrity and lower chances of chromosomal errors.
At Simran IVF® in Mohali, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Kharar, our embryologists use PICSI to enhance fertilization success and overall pregnancy outcomes.
How Does PICSI Work? Step-by-Step Procedure
The PICSI technique follows these key steps:
Semen Collection and Processing
The male partner provides a semen sample, which is then washed and prepared in our embryology lab.Hyaluronic Acid Plate Preparation
A specialized culture dish is coated with hyaluronic acid, mimicking the natural environment around the egg.Sperm Incubation
The processed sperm are introduced into the dish. Only mature sperm with HA receptors will bind to the hyaluronic acid surface.Sperm Selection
Our embryologists examine the bound sperm under a microscope. Only those that attach to HA are selected for injection.Microinjection (ICSI)
The selected mature sperm are then injected into the egg, following the ICSI process.
This added layer of natural sperm selection improves fertilization quality and supports better embryo development.
Who Should Consider PICSI at Simran IVF®?
PICSI is especially recommended for:
Couples with recurrent IVF or ICSI failure
Men with high sperm DNA fragmentation
Cases of unexplained infertility
Couples with a history of early miscarriage
Older male partners or advanced paternal age
Patients undergoing preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A/PGT-M)
If you fall into one of these categories, our fertility experts at Simran IVF® can evaluate your condition and determine if PICSI is appropriate for your treatment plan.
Benefits of PICSI Over Traditional ICSI
PICSI offers several advantages over conventional ICSI:
Better Sperm Quality: By selecting mature sperm, PICSI improves the chances of using genetically healthier sperm.
Reduced DNA Fragmentation: Mature sperm selected through HA binding show significantly lower DNA damage.
Improved Embryo Development: High-quality sperm contribute to stronger, more viable embryos.
Lower Miscarriage Risk: By avoiding immature sperm with DNA issues, the risk of miscarriage may be reduced.
Enhanced Pregnancy Outcomes: PICSI can increase the likelihood of successful implantation and full-term pregnancy.
At Simran IVF®, we tailor every fertility treatment based on the individual couple’s history, medical diagnosis, and reproductive goals.
Scientific Support and Global Evidence on PICSI
While many fertility clinics worldwide now offer PICSI, studies on its effectiveness show mixed outcomes. Some clinical trials have shown that PICSI may reduce miscarriage rates and improve embryo quality, particularly in patients with high sperm DNA fragmentation.
Other studies, including large trials in the UK and Vietnam, found no significant improvement in live birth rates when comparing PICSI to standard ICSI in the general population. However, they acknowledge that certain subgroups—like those with male factor infertility or previous IVF failure—may benefit.
At Simran IVF®, we use PICSI only when medically indicated, ensuring evidence-based, ethical, and cost-effective treatment.
PICSI at Simran IVF®: Our Approach
At Simran IVF®, we combine expertise with compassion. Our approach to PICSI includes:
Detailed Semen Analysis and DNA Fragmentation Testing before recommending PICSI.
Use of certified HA-coated culture dishes in our advanced embryology lab.
PICSI performed by trained embryologists under strict quality control.
Comprehensive counselling for couples regarding the procedure, benefits, limitations, and cost.
Each treatment cycle is customized based on the patient’s reproductive profile. We aim to improve outcomes, not increase unnecessary procedures.
Cost of PICSI at Simran IVF®
PICSI is a specialized lab procedure and is generally offered as an add-on to standard ICSI/IVF treatments. The cost can vary depending on the individual treatment plan but remains affordable compared to international standards.
Our team provides complete transparency regarding pricing during your consultation. We also offer financial counseling and NRI packages for overseas patients.
Why Choose Simran IVF® for PICSI?
Simran IVF® is a leader in fertility care across Punjab, with state-of-the-art clinics in Mohali, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Kharar. Here’s why patients trust us:
🥼 Internationally trained fertility specialist – Dr. Gursimran Dhaliwal
🔬 Cutting-edge lab technology and highly skilled embryologists
💬 Personalized care and honest counselling at every step
🌍 Trusted by thousands of Indian and NRI families worldwide
We don’t recommend procedures unless they are medically justified and in the patient’s best interest.
Book a Consultation for PICSI Today
If you or your partner are facing fertility challenges and are considering ICSI or advanced sperm selection techniques, consult our specialists to see if PICSI is right for you.
📞 Call 08899600001 or
🌐 Visit https://simranivfwellness.com to book your appointment today.
Let us help you take the next confident step toward your dream of parenthood—with precision, care, and hope.
Online simple step for appointment
To make an appointment at Simran IVF, simply reach out through our contact page, where you can fill out an easy form to schedule a consultation. Our team will get back to you promptly to confirm your appointment details. Alternatively, you can call our office directly to speak with one of our friendly staff members, who will assist you in selecting a convenient time for your visit. We look forward to supporting you on your fertility journey!
Make Appointment
Select Doctor
Get Consultation
Frequently asked questions
PICSI (Physiological ICSI) uses hyaluronic acid to select mature, DNA-intact sperm before injection, mimicking natural sperm selection. ICSI selects sperm based on morphology and motility alone. PICSI may reduce the risk of miscarriage and improve embryo quality in certain patients.
PICSI may improve fertilization quality, reduce DNA damage in embryos, and lower miscarriage rates in selected patients. However, it does not guarantee higher pregnancy or live birth rates in every case and is used based on clinical indications.
No. PICSI is performed entirely in the laboratory as part of the IVF-ICSI process. It involves no additional procedure or discomfort for the male or female partner.
PICSI is an add-on procedure and is priced separately from the IVF-ICSI package. Our team will provide full transparency about the cost during your consultation.