Understanding PESA Sperm Retrieval and the TESA Procedure
- Thamima S
- Aug 6
- 4 min read
Even though everything else is normal, why isn’t a man able to produce sperm at all? Is it the end of the road?
Not quite. In many cases, the sperm is there. It’s just not coming out the usual way.
PESA sperm retrieval and the TESA procedure are two simple techniques used in fertility treatment to collect sperm directly from the body, without needing ejaculation. They’re often used in cases like obstructive azoospermia or failed vasectomy reversal.
What is PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)?
PESA is a safe and minimally invasive sperm retrieval medical process. Also known as Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration, it is meant to collect sperm from males who can't release naturally due to past surgeries or blockages. PESA is usually the primary medical choice for males dealing with obstructive azoospermia.
How does PESA Sperm Retrieval work?
When going through the process:
The medical practitioner will insert a very fine needle into the epididymis through the scrotal skin.
The process goes smoothly under local anaesthesia without needing any general sedation.
PESA takes less than 30 minutes without any cuts or stitches. You can expect quick healing.
PESA sperm retrieval is suitable for males with blocked vas deferens, congenital absence of the vas deferens, or vasectomy. It is commonly paired with IVF or ICSI to help achieve fertilisation using your own sperm.
What is TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration)?
When the male sperm can't be retrieved from the epididymis, the TESA procedure comes in handy. Or, it may help if PESA has already failed. TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) is an advanced procedure and involves a direct aspiration from the testicular tissue.
What happens during TESA?
During the TESA procedure, a medical expert uses a thin needle to access tissue/ fluid from your testicles.
Because it's not too invasive, you’ll only need local anaesthesia to stay comfortable.
Later, the fertility experts examine and use the sperm for IVF or ICSI cycles.
TESA is ideal for those males dealing with non-obstructive azoospermia. It is also useful if the epididymal sperm are not viable. It doesn’t take long, and you’ll likely be back to normal within a day.
What Happens on the Day of the Procedure?
Fertility procedures like PESA and TESA are performed at the fertility clinic on an outpatient basis. Here's a quick idea of how the day goes:
The individual arrives at the clinic and is prepped by the care team. Once comfortable, a practitioner will give you a local anaesthetic.
Once your lower body is under the effect of anaesthesia, a fertility expert will perform PESA sperm retrieval or the TESA procedure, depending on your plan.
Both processes (separately) take no more than 20-30 minutes. You can expect to go home the same day, and feel mostly back to normal within 24 hours.
Males who have partners undergoing egg retrieval undergo the procedure together.
Whether you’re doing ICSI now or planning ahead, the sperm is prepped immediately.
Some individuals may experience mild bruising or soreness, but it is bearable. Most males return to normal activity within a day or two. It guarantees comfort, safety, and the best possible IVF success rate in 2025.
What are the Benefits of PESA and TESA?
Both PESA sperm retrieval and the TESA procedure are pretty straightforward and don’t require big surgery. You’ll be in and out quickly with very little downtime.
For guys dealing with azoospermia (no sperm in the ejaculate), these treatments can actually make it possible to father a child using your own sperm. That’s huge.
They work hand-in-hand with IVF and ICSI, so the sperm collected can be used right away or frozen for later. It’s flexible.
Timing is easier too. You can plan your procedure around your partner’s egg retrieval to keep things smooth and coordinated.
These aren’t scary, invasive operations, but real solutions that fit into a couple’s fertility journey.
If you’re exploring male fertility treatment options, knowing there’s a minimally invasive path like this can bring some real hope.
FAQs
Are these PESA sperm retrieval and TESA procedure safe?
When done by experienced fertility specialists, yes, they carry very low risks. Some minor bruising or swelling can happen, but it clears up quickly.
Is PESA sperm retrieval and TESA procedure painful?
While both procedures are painless, some males can feel slight pressure or discomfort. The doctor in charge usually numbs the area and completes the process quickly.
Is recovery from PESA sperm retrieval long?
Not really. You might feel some discomfort for a day or so, but it’s nothing that’ll keep you off your feet. Most men go back to work or their normal routines almost immediately.
The PESA sperm retrieval and TESA procedure helpful for all types of male infertility?
No, PESA sperm retrieval and TESA procedure are helpful only if a male is dealing with obstructive azoospermia or ejaculation issues.
Not sure if PESA sperm retrieval TESA procedure fits your situation? We can help you figure it out. Our fertility specialists in Kerala can create a personalised plan just for you. Book a consultation with Bliss Fertility today.
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