Sperm retrieval procedures are medical techniques used to collect sperm directly from the male reproductive tract when it is absent from the semen. These methods are crucial for couples where the male partner does not have sperm in his ejaculate due to conditions like azoospermia (zero sperm count), past surgeries, or blockages. At Vasundhara IVF in Lucknow, Dr. Noopur Bajpai offers safe and effective sperm retrieval options that have helped many couples confidently continue with their fertility treatment.

Sperm retrieval is usually performed when natural ejaculation does not produce viable sperm, but the man’s body is still generating it internally. The specific technique used depends on the medical condition and is determined after thorough evaluation.

Common methods include:

PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration):

A fine needle is used to extract sperm from the epididymis. It is a quick, minimally invasive outpatient procedure and is usually done under local anesthesia.

TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration):

This method involves taking a small amount of tissue from the testicle using a needle. Sperm is then extracted from the tissue in the lab.

TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction):

This is a slightly more detailed surgical procedure where a small incision is made to retrieve testicular tissue. It is often used in more complex cases and can be done under local or general anesthesia.

All of these procedures are performed with great care and accuracy in our specialized andrology lab. After retrieval, the sperm is either used immediately for ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) or frozen for future use.

Sperm retrieval may be recommended if the male partner has obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia, a prior vasectomy, ejaculation disorders, or unexplained infertility. If repeated semen analyses show no sperm, Dr. Noopur will guide you through the available options, explain the procedure in detail, and help you make an informed choice.