Only mature and genetically acceptable sperm produce the hyaluronidase enzyme which is located in the sperm’s head.

This enzyme ensures that when the sperm meets the egg cell the outer egg integument dissolves and the sperm is able to penetrate, so enabling fertilisation.

Through the HBA test (hyaluronidase fixation test) used in the KinderWunschKlinik sperm are chosen according to their specific fixation properties for the ICSI procedure. All these sperm are mature and do not show DNA degradation.

With the ICSI method a single sperm is injected into the egg using a hollow needle. In the past only the motility, appearance and shape of the sperm were considered but since May 2006 the presence of the hyaluronidase enzyme can also be confirmed in the KinderWunschKlinik lab using a unique fixation test developed in the USA.

Only sperm that produce the hyaluronidase enzyme are mature and genetically sound and are consequently used in our clinic in the P-ICSI procedure.