Question

In case of a couple where the male is having a very low sperm count, which technique will be suitable for fertilisation?

• A. Intrauterine transfer
• B. Gamete intracytoplasmic fallopian transfer
• C. Artificial Insemination
• D. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine the suitable technique for fertilization in a case where the male has a very low sperm count, we need to examine the options provided and their corresponding procedures:

1. Intrauterine Transfer: This method involves placing embryos directly into the uterus after they have been fertilized outside of the body (in vitro). It is not specifically used to address low sperm count issues.
2. Gamete Intracytoplasmic Fallopian Transfer (GIFT): This technique involves placing gametes (sperms and eggs) directly into the fallopian tubes. It requires a normal sperm count to be effective as there is no direct intervention in the fertilization process.
3. Artificial Insemination (AI): This is a fertility treatment method primarily used when males have low sperm counts. It involves directly inserting concentrated sperm into a female's uterus, increasing the chances of sperm reaching the egg and facilitating natural fertilization.
4. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): This is a highly specialized technique where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg to achieve fertilization. It is typically used in cases of severe male infertility, such as extremely low sperm count or poor sperm motility.

Considering the options, both Artificial Insemination (AI) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) are potential candidates to address low sperm count issues. However, based on the question context which suggests a very low sperm count but doesn't specify severe infertility, AI remains the recommended initial approach due to its less invasive nature and simplicity.

Hence, the correct answer is: Artificial Insemination.

To further clarify, while ICSI is an advanced solution often employed when AI is unsuccessful, AI is considered a less complex and an initial step usually recommended if the sperm count issue is manageable with concentrated sperm samples.