Trends in the use of intracytoplasmatic sperm injection marked variability between countries

Abstract

BACKGROUND: ICSI is used increasingly often compared with standard IVF. The aim of the present study was to analyse the changes in the use of ICSI, and discuss possible causes and consequences. METHODS: Data from National and Regional registers were analysed for trends in the use of ICSI and indications for assisted reproductive technology (ART). RESULTS: The use of ICSI increased from 39.6 % of ART cycles in 1997 to 58.9 % in 2004 (USA 57.5%, Australia/New Zealand 58.6%, Europe 59.3%). The Nordic countries, the Netherlands and the UK used ICSI to