TESA, or Testicular Sperm Aspiration, is a surgical procedure used to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles for use in assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments like IVF and ICSI. It is a method of sperm retrieval commonly recommended for men with azoospermia, a condition in which no sperm is present in the ejaculate due to either a blockage or issues with sperm production. TESA is a minimally invasive procedure and is particularly beneficial for couples where male infertility is a significant factor in their inability to conceive.
In TESA, a small needle is inserted into the testicle, and a sample of tissue containing sperm is aspirated. The sperm are then extracted from the tissue in a laboratory for fertilization with the female partner’s eggs. This technique provides an option for men who are unable to produce viable sperm naturally or through ejaculation, enabling them to become biological fathers.
TESA is typically recommended for men with specific types of male infertility that prevent sperm from being present in the semen. These situations may include:
• Azoospermia (both obstructive and non-obstructive)
• Previous vasectomy or failed vasectomy reversal
• Low or absent sperm count in the semen
• Genetic conditions affecting sperm production
• In cases where sperm cannot be retrieved through ejaculation due to medical conditions
TESA is a valuable option when traditional sperm collection methods are not viable, offering couples a chance at conception through IVF or ICSI.
Before undergoing TESA, couples will meet with a fertility specialist to assess whether the procedure is the right approach for their specific fertility challenges. The male partner will undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including a semen analysis, hormonal tests, and sometimes a genetic screening, to understand the root cause of the fertility issue.
TESA is typically performed under local anesthesia and is a relatively quick procedure. During the procedure, A small needle is inserted into the testicle or epididymis. A tissue sample is aspirated using gentle suction. The tissue is then processed in the lab to extract viable sperm. TESA is usually completed in less than 30 minutes and is considered minimally invasive, with most patients recovering quickly.
After the sperm-containing tissue is collected, it is sent to a laboratory where embryologists isolate and prepare the sperm for fertilization. The retrieved sperm are assessed for quality, and the best sperm are selected for use in fertilizing the female partner’s eggs, typically through ICSI. If enough sperm are obtained, they may also be frozen for future fertility treatments.
Once the sperm have been selected, they are injected directly into the retrieved eggs through the ICSI process. Fertilization is carefully monitored over the following days, with embryologists observing the development of the embryos. Once the embryos reach the appropriate stage of development, they are prepared for transfer to the woman’s uterus.
The highest-quality embryos are selected for transfer into the female partner’s uterus. The embryo transfer is a simple, minimally invasive procedure that typically doesn’t require sedation. Following the transfer, the patient is monitored to ensure optimal conditions for embryo implantation.
After the embryo transfer, the patient is monitored to support successful implantation. A pregnancy test is conducted approximately 10 to 12 days after the procedure to determine if the treatment was successful. If the test is positive, regular monitoring and check-ups will follow.
If you are considering TESA as part of your fertility journey, contact our fertility specialists for personalized advice and guidance. We offer consultations to discuss whether TESA is the right option for your specific circumstances, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. You can reach us by filling out the form below or calling us at +91 9599754455 to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward achieving your dream of parenthood.