Fertility Decoded

MACS / microfluidics sperm sorting

Newer ways to select 'better' sperm — magnetically (MACS) or by swim-through chips (microfluidics/Zymot).

Written by Fertility Decoded. Reviewed by D R, MS (OBG), FRM. Review date: 31 August 2026.

The verdict

Limited evidence — microfluidics may be considered; MACS not routine.

Who are these bodies?

HFEA
— UK fertility regulator; rates add-ons by evidence (traffic-light).
ESHRE
— European fertility society; evidence-based practice guidance.
NICE
— UK health-guidance body; what the NHS will and won't fund.
ISAR
— Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction; Indian expert consensus.
Cochrane
— Independent global reviewers of the underlying studies.

  • HFEA

    UK regulator

    Not on HFEA's rated list — chance of a baby

  • ESHRE

    European society

    Microfluidics: can be considered; MACS: not routine

    Microfluidics can be considered (single Fertile-Chip RCT); MACS not recommended for routine clinical use.

    Source

  • NICE

    UK NHS guidance

    Not addressed

    Not addressed in NG257.

  • ISAR

    Indian society

    Data collection advised

    Data collection recommended; not enough robust data to recommend routine use.

    Source

  • Cochrane

    Evidence base

    No Cochrane review identified specifically for this add-on.

Typical cost in India

Sperm-prep add-on, ~₹5,000–20,000; approximate.

Sources

Take this further

Sources last reviewed .