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IN VITRO TECHNOLOGIES

IMSI Treatment in Bulgaria

IMSI (Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection) is a method that helps ensure a more precise selection of sperm before fertilization during IVF or ICSI. When there is a problem with the sperm, selecting the right one can be crucial. You don’t need to understand every laboratory detail—you just need to know why this method might be recommended, when it makes sense, and whether it’s right for you.

When can IMSI treatment help?

Not every couple needs IMSI. The decision is made after a careful review of your medical history, age, ovarian reserve, and semen analysis. The goal is not to burden you with unnecessary procedures, but to choose the right approach.
Процедура IMSI под високо увеличение

Indications for the procedure

  • Severe male factor and poor sperm morphology
  • Previous unsuccessful IVF or ICSI attempts

  • Recurrent Fertility Problems

  • Poor embryo development in previous cycles

  • Recurrent pregnancy loss (when we suspect a problem with sperm quality)

How does the IMSI procedure work?

  • Assessment and Preparation
    Previous attempts and results are reviewed. The sample is carefully processed in the laboratory by our embryologists.
  • Examination under high magnification
    The embryologist examines the sperm under a microscope at a magnification many times greater than that used in standard methods in order to assess their shape and structure in detail.
  • Injection and Tracking
    The sperm cell with the best visible morphology is selected and injected directly into the egg. The development of the embryos is closely monitored over the following days.

IMSI and ICSI: What's the Difference?

The two methods are very similar, but there is one key difference in the preparation and selection stage in the laboratory.

ICSI method

In ICSI, a viable sperm is selected by an embryologist and injected directly into the egg.

IMSI selection

With IMSI, the process is similar, but before the actual injection, the sperm is selected through much more detailed observation under extremely high magnification.

Purpose of the Procedure

The goal is to select a sperm cell with the best possible visible structure. Although this does not guarantee pregnancy, in certain cases it helps ensure a significantly better selection.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. IMSI is a similar method, but it uses a much higher magnification to evaluate and select a sperm before injecting it into the egg.

No. IMSI is most often considered in cases of a pronounced male factor, sperm problems, or previous failed attempts. It is not automatically used for everyone.

No, the method does not guarantee pregnancy. However, it can be of significant help in certain cases where sperm quality is a key factor.

No. IMSI is a purely laboratory-based technique performed on the samples. It causes absolutely no pain or additional discomfort for the patient.

Yes. You can start with an online consultation so we can discuss the details before you have to travel to Sofia.

Лого на д-р Мефтуне Шефкетова

Is IMSI right for you?

If sperm quality could affect your treatment, don't put it off. Schedule a consultation in Sofia or online so we can develop the right plan for you.

Dr. Shefketova

FERTILITY · REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE · IVF
© 2026 Dr. Meftune Shefketova. All rights reserved.