Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE & TESA) in Male Infertility

Male infertility accounts for nearly half of all infertility cases among couples. One of the major causes of male infertility is azoospermia, which means the absence of sperm in semen. For men diagnosed with this condition, advanced fertility procedures like TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) and TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) have brought new hope by allowing them to become biological fathers.

At Shanvi IVF, these procedures are performed by expert andrologists and embryologists with the highest level of care and precision. Both TESA and TESE are minimally invasive methods that help retrieve viable sperm directly from the testicles for use in assisted reproductive techniques like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).

Understanding Male Infertility and Azoospermia

Azoospermia can be classified into two types — obstructive azoospermia and non-obstructive azoospermia.

In obstructive azoospermia, the testicles produce sperm normally, but a blockage in the reproductive tract prevents sperm from reaching the semen. In non-obstructive azoospermia, sperm production itself is impaired due to hormonal imbalance, testicular failure, or genetic conditions.

Despite these challenges, sperm may still be present in the testicular tissue. With modern techniques like TESA and TESE, these sperm can be retrieved and used for fertilization in the IVF lab.

What Is TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration)?

TESA is a simple and minimally invasive technique used to retrieve sperm from the testicles using a fine needle and syringe. It is usually performed under local anesthesia and takes around 15 to 20 minutes.

In this procedure, a fine needle is inserted into the testis, and suction is applied to collect a small amount of tissue and fluid. The sample is then processed in the IVF laboratory, where viable sperm are isolated and prepared for ICSI.

TESA is often recommended for men with obstructive azoospermia or those who have undergone vasectomy and are unable to ejaculate sperm naturally. It is a quick, low-risk procedure with a fast recovery time.

What Is TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction)?

TESE is a more advanced method where a small incision is made in the scrotal skin to remove a small piece of testicular tissue. This tissue sample is then examined in the IVF lab to find healthy, motile sperm.

The procedure can be performed under local or general anesthesia and usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. TESE is primarily used in cases of non-obstructive azoospermia, where sperm production is very low or absent in the semen but may still be present in localized areas of the testes.

If TESA fails to retrieve sperm, TESE often serves as a more effective alternative because it allows direct tissue sampling from multiple sites.

TESA vs TESE – Understanding the Difference

TESA is less invasive and primarily used for men with obstructive azoospermia, while TESE is slightly more invasive and better suited for non-obstructive cases.
TESA involves needle aspiration, whereas TESE involves a small surgical biopsy.
TESA requires minimal recovery time, while TESE may require two to three days of rest before resuming normal activities.

Both techniques are safe, and the choice between the two depends entirely on the underlying cause of infertility and the recommendation of the fertility specialist.

Why Choose TESE/TESA at Shanvi IVF

At Shanvi IVF, male infertility is treated with a personalized and scientific approach. The procedures are performed by experienced andrologists in a sterile environment with advanced laboratory support.

Our key advantages include:

• Dedicated andrology department with advanced micro-surgical instruments
• On-site embryology lab for immediate sperm examination and selection
• Option to freeze retrieved sperm for future IVF cycles
• High success rate when combined with ICSI treatment
• Complete privacy and emotional counseling for couples

What to Expect After the Procedure

TESA and TESE are day-care procedures, meaning patients can usually go home the same day. Some mild discomfort or swelling may occur, which subsides within a few days.
Patients are advised to avoid heavy physical activity for 48 to 72 hours and follow the doctor’s post-procedure care instructions carefully.

The retrieved sperm are either used immediately for fertilization through ICSI or stored using cryopreservation for future IVF cycles.

You can read more about male hormonal health in our related post:
Low Testosterone in Men Planning Parenthood – Treatment Options.

Success Rate of TESE and TESA

The success of sperm retrieval depends on the type of azoospermia and the man’s overall reproductive health. On average, TESA has a sperm retrieval rate of about 60 to 70 percent, while TESE may achieve success rates between 70 and 80 percent.

When combined with ICSI, fertilization and pregnancy rates can reach up to 60 percent, offering a strong chance of conception even in complex infertility cases.

Emotional Support and Counseling

Male infertility often carries emotional stress and social stigma. Shanvi IVF offers professional counseling to both partners to help them manage the psychological aspects of infertility. Our team believes that treatment should heal not only the body but also the mind.

We guide couples with compassion, ensuring they feel supported at every step of their journey to parenthood.

Conclusion

A diagnosis of azoospermia does not mean that biological fatherhood is impossible. With techniques like TESA and TESE, it is now possible to retrieve viable sperm directly from the testicles and achieve pregnancy through assisted reproductive techniques like IVF and ICSI.

At Shanvi IVF, every treatment plan is tailored with precision and empathy to give couples the best chance of success. If you or your partner have been diagnosed with low sperm count or azoospermia, it is the right time to consult our fertility specialists and explore the most suitable treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is TESE or TESA painful?
Both procedures are performed under local anaesthesia, so pain is minimal. Some mild soreness may occur for a short period after the procedure.

Q2. How long does recovery take after TESE or TESA?
Most patients recover within one to three days. TESE may require a slightly longer recovery due to the surgical incision.

Q3. Can sperm retrieve from these procedures be stored?
Yes. The retrieved sperm can be cryopreserved for use in future IVF or ICSI cycles, avoiding the need for repeat procedures.

Q4. What are the chances of finding sperm in non-obstructive azoospermia?
Sperm retrieval success in non-obstructive azoospermia varies from 40 to 60 percent, depending on the underlying cause.

Q5. Can these procedures be repeated?
Yes, if necessary. However, repeat procedures are planned based on recovery and testicular health.

Q6. Which method is better, TESE or TESA?
TESA is best for obstructive azoospermia, while TESE is preferred for non-obstructive or severe cases. The fertility specialist decides based on diagnosis and medical evaluation.