Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) – Advanced Sperm Selection at Karnic Clinic

One of the most important factors in achieving success in IVF and ICSI is sperm quality. Even if sperm appear normal in shape and movement under the microscope, many may carry hidden DNA damage or be at the end of their life cycle. Such sperm can lead to poor fertilization, weak embryo development, or even miscarriage.

At Karnic Clinic, we offer Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) – an advanced sperm selection technique designed to filter out unhealthy sperm and select only the healthiest, most viable ones. This technology is especially useful for couples who have experienced repeated IVF failures, miscarriages, or unexplained infertility.

What is MACS?

MACS (Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting) is a laboratory technique used during fertility treatments to separate healthy sperm from sperm that are damaged or undergoing apoptosis (natural cell death).

The science behind MACS is based on magnetic labeling. Damaged sperm express a marker called Annexin V on their surface. In MACS, tiny magnetic beads coated with Annexin V are introduced into the sperm sample. These beads attach to the damaged sperm.

The sample is then passed through a magnetic column, where the damaged sperm (bound to beads) are retained, while the healthy, viable sperm pass through and are collected for fertilization.

This ensures that only the best sperm are used for ICSI or PICSI, leading to better embryo quality and higher chances of pregnancy.

 

Who Should Consider MACS?

MACS is particularly recommended for:

• Couples with repeated IVF or ICSI failures
• Cases of recurrent pregnancy loss (miscarriages)
• Men with high sperm DNA fragmentation
• Couples with poor embryo quality in previous cycles
• Unexplained infertility when no obvious reason is found
• Older couples where sperm quality may be compromised

 

How MACS Works – Step by Step

1. Semen Collection & Preparation
   • The male partner provides a semen sample, which is processed in the lab.
2. Magnetic Labeling
   • Special magnetic beads coated with Annexin V are mixed with the sperm.
   • The beads attach to sperm with damaged membranes (apoptotic sperm).
3. Magnetic Separation
   • The sample is passed through a magnetic column.
   • Damaged sperm bound to beads remain stuck inside the column.
   • Healthy sperm flow out and are collected.
4. Fertilization
   • These selected healthy sperm are then used for ICSI, PICSI, or IVF.

 

Why Choose MACS Over Conventional Methods?

Standard sperm selection is usually based on appearance (motility and morphology) under a microscope. But many sperm may “look” normal while carrying DNA damage.

MACS provides a deeper level of selection by eliminating sperm with hidden damage.

Advantages of MACS

• Improves embryo quality – only healthy sperm are used
• Reduces miscarriage risk – by avoiding damaged sperm
• Increases fertilization rates – healthier sperm interact better with eggs
• Boosts success in recurrent IVF failures
• Helps in unexplained infertility cases

 

Benefits of MACS at Karnic Clinic

✔State-of-the-art Technology – Our embryology lab is equipped with the latest MACS systems.
✔Improved Outcomes – Better fertilization, stronger embryos, and higher implantation rates.
✔Safer Pregnancy – By reducing the risk of using defective sperm, MACS lowers miscarriage chances.
✔Personalized Approach – Dr. Mugdha Amit Parasnis recommends MACS only for couples who truly benefit from it.
✔Integration with Advanced ART – MACS can be combined with IVF, ICSI, PICSI, and genetic testing (PGT) for comprehensive fertility solutions.

 

Is MACS Right for You?

Not every couple undergoing IVF needs MACS. At Karnic Clinic, we perform a thorough evaluation before suggesting MACS.

You may be advised MACS if:

• You have faced 2 or more failed IVF/ICSI cycles
• You’ve had multiple miscarriages without explanation
• Tests show high sperm DNA fragmentation
• You want to maximize the chances of success in your upcoming cycle

 

Why Karnic Clinic for MACS?

• Expertise in Advanced ART – Dr. Mugdha specializes in managing complex fertility challenges.
• Cutting-edge Lab Facilities – Equipped with the latest sperm selection technologies including MACS, PICSI, and ICSI.
• Holistic Care – Combining fertility treatments with counseling, genetic testing, and fetal medicine.
• Individualized Treatment Plans – Every couple receives a plan designed around their unique fertility journey.
• Proven Success Rates – Many couples with repeated IVF failures have achieved pregnancy with MACS at Karnic Clinic.