PESA and TESE Sperm Retrieval

Men with Infertility Can Still Have Children

PESA and TESE Sperm Retrieval: Men with Infertility Can Still Have Children

Eggs and sperm are the essential components for fertilization and pregnancy. For men whose semen analysis shows no sperm, there is no need to lose hope of having children. Today, medical technology enables sperm to be retrieved directly from the testicles or epididymis using PESA and TESE techniques. These procedures have been developed to help men experiencing infertility due to various causes, such as permanent sterilization, obstruction, or even abnormally low sperm production. Understanding these sperm retrieval methods is an important first step in planning for successful parenthood.

PESA and TESE and the Role of the Laboratory

After sperm retrieval using PESA or TESE, the collected sample is sent to the laboratory to identify and evaluate sperm that may be suitable for treatment. Embryologists examine and select appropriate sperm before they are used in assisted reproductive procedures. Each step requires precision and expertise in handling sperm samples.

From PESA / TESE to ICSI

Sperm retrieved through PESA or TESE may be considered for use in conjunction with the ICSI procedure. Sperm that have been evaluated and selected are directly injected into the egg, followed by fertilization and embryo culture. The treatment process therefore connects the steps from sperm retrieval through to embryo creation in the laboratory.

PESA and TESE in Treatment Planning

Although both PESA and TESE are methods of directly retrieving sperm, neither method is suitable for every man. The doctor will consider the underlying cause of azoospermia, medical treatment history, and information from an individual assessment of the reproductive system to determine the most appropriate sperm retrieval approach in line with the overall treatment plan.

Sperm Retrieval Requires Collaboration Between Doctors and Embryologists

The PESA and TESE process does not end once a sperm sample has been successfully retrieved. It requires continuous collaboration between doctors and embryologists, from planning the sperm retrieval and examining and evaluating the sample to selecting sperm for use in assisted reproductive procedures. Collaboration between these two teams is therefore an important part of developing an appropriate treatment plan for each couple.

What Are PESA and TESE Sperm Retrieval? How Are They Different?

PESA and TESE are medical procedures used for men who are unable to ejaculate naturally or who have problems with sperm production or sperm transport. These procedures allow sperm to be retrieved directly and used in conjunction with ICSI to increase the chances of pregnancy for couples experiencing infertility.

Who Is Suitable for PESA and TESE Sperm Retrieval?

PESA and TESE sperm retrieval are options for men who are unable to ejaculate sperm naturally or who have abnormalities in their reproductive system. The doctor will determine which procedure is appropriate based on each individual’s physical condition and specific fertility issues. Both procedures may be particularly suitable for the following groups:

  • Men with azoospermia (no sperm in the semen), congenital absence of the vas deferens, or low sperm production
  • Men who have previously undergone permanent sterilization but wish to have children again
  • Men with obstruction or injury to the vas deferens caused by an accident, as well as those with chronic inflammation
  • Men undergoing ICSI treatment for infertility when sperm retrieval through natural ejaculation is unsuccessful
What Happens After Sperm Retrieval?

After sperm has been retrieved using PESA or TESE, the collected sperm may undergo additional procedures depending on the treatment plan, including:

  • Sperm quality assessment: The retrieved sperm is evaluated for sperm count, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity to select healthy sperm suitable for use in assisted reproductive procedures.
  • Use in the ICSI procedure: Selected sperm are directly injected into the egg, leading to fertilization and pregnancy.

Sperm cryopreservation for future use: If a sufficient number of good-quality sperm are retrieved, they can be frozen for use in future fertility treatments without the need to undergo another sperm retrieval procedure.

Self-Care After Sperm Retrieval

After the procedure, men should take proper care of themselves to support recovery and maintain sperm quality in the long term. The following guidelines may be followed:

  • Maintain strict genital hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or intense exercise, for approximately 1–2 days.
  • Avoid sexual intercourse for at least 7 days to allow the wound around the testicle to heal properly.
  • If there is pain, swelling, or redness around the sperm retrieval site, inform the doctor immediately.
  • Get adequate rest and avoid situations that cause stress.
  • Avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages, as they may affect sperm quality and the body’s recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are PESA and TESE?

PESA and TESE are methods of retrieving sperm directly from the male reproductive system for men who are unable to obtain sperm through normal ejaculation. The retrieved sperm can be used in conjunction with ICSI.

PESA involves using a needle to aspirate sperm from the epididymis, while TESE involves retrieving tissue from the testicle to examine for sperm. The doctor will select the most appropriate method based on the cause and individual condition of each patient.

These procedures are suitable for men with azoospermia, obstruction of the sperm pathway, congenital absence of the vas deferens, a history of vasectomy, or an inability to obtain sperm through normal ejaculation.

Sperm that are identified and considered suitable can be used for ICSI. The laboratory will evaluate and select appropriate sperm before directly injecting them into the egg.

Keep the treatment area clean, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise during the initial recovery period, get adequate rest, and follow the doctor’s instructions. If you experience unusual pain, swelling, or redness, contact your doctor immediately.

Yes. If the retrieved sperm are of sufficient quantity and suitable quality, they can be frozen for use in future fertility treatment, and in some cases, another sperm retrieval procedure may not be necessary.