Sperm retrieval procedures are specialised treatments used to help men with azoospermia, a condition in which there is no sperm in the ejaculate. These procedures are often recommended when male infertility is caused by problems with sperm production or a blockage that prevents sperm from being released normally.

At Nordica Fertility Centre, sperm retrieval procedures can help men with very low or zero sperm count take an important step towards parenthood. Sperm may be retrieved directly from the testis or the epididymis, depending on the cause of the problem and the most suitable treatment approach.

There are two main types of azoospermia. Obstructive azoospermia occurs when sperm is being produced in the testis but cannot be released because of a blockage in the reproductive tract. Men with this condition may still ejaculate seminal fluid, but without sperm. The blockage may result from previous infection, vasectomy, or injury. Non obstructive azoospermia occurs when the testicles produce very little or no sperm at all.

At Nordica Fertility Centre, sperm retrieval may be carried out using techniques such as Testicular Sperm Aspiration, also known as TESA, or Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration, also known as PESA. TESA involves inserting a fine needle into the testis to collect tissue or fluid samples through gentle suction. The retrieved sperm is then examined in the laboratory. Because surgically retrieved sperm are usually immature, they are generally used together with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, also known as ICSI, rather than conventional IVF.

After the procedure, patients may be advised to use firm scrotal support and simple pain relief such as paracetamol, as mild discomfort or bruising may occur for up to 48 hours.