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Male infertility and TESE

Male-factor assessment and surgical sperm retrieval options when indicated.

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Timing and clinic visits

The procedure is short and you go home the same day. The assessment may span a few weeks.

Risks and limitations

Every medical procedure has possible risks and limitations. Personal risks and alternatives should be discussed before consent.

Who may be assessed?

No sperm cells found in the semen sample (azoospermia)
A markedly low sperm count
An obstruction to sperm passage following surgery or another cause
Patients needing urological assessment after hormonal investigation
Couples for whom an advanced method is planned after genetic assessment

Treatment process

01
Semen analysis
This is the basic investigation. If the result is lower than expected it is repeated after an interval.
02
Hormonal and urological assessment
Hormone tests and a urological examination are used to investigate the likely cause of azoospermia.
03
Genetic investigation
Where indicated, genetic tests are requested and the results are reviewed together with counselling.
04
Planning
The suitability and timing of sperm retrieval are planned alongside your partner's IVF schedule.
05
The procedure
Sperm is retrieved surgically. The procedure is performed under anaesthesia and you go home the same day.
06
Laboratory and ICSI
The sperm obtained is assessed and used with ICSI; where suitable it can also be frozen and stored.

**Clinical assessment**We begin by listening and reviewing previous results together.

Laboratory processEggs and sperm are followed by the laboratory team according to the selected protocol.

Frequently asked questions

Is one semen analysis enough?

Usually not. Sperm production takes weeks and a result can be affected by temporary factors, so the test is repeated after an interval.

How long do I need to rest afterwards?

You are discharged the same day. A short rest and avoiding heavy exertion for a few days are advised; your doctor gives detailed instructions.

What if no sperm is found?

This possibility is discussed openly before the procedure. If it happens, other options are considered together with the couple.

Can retrieved sperm be stored?

Suitable samples can be frozen and stored for use in a later IVF cycle. The conditions are explained at your consultation.

Detailed information

Male-factor infertility contributes to the picture in a significant proportion of couples having difficulty conceiving. Assessment begins with a semen analysis; depending on the result, hormonal investigation, a urological examination and, where indicated, genetic tests are added.

What is TESE?

Where no sperm cells can be found in the ejaculate (azoospermia), sperm may be retrieved surgically directly from testicular tissue. This procedure is called TESE. The sperm obtained is used with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Is every case of azoospermia the same?

No. The approach differs depending on whether the azoospermia is due to an obstruction or to a problem with production. That distinction is made through examination, hormone levels and any indicated tests, and the method is chosen accordingly.

What happens beforehand?

A single semen analysis is not enough on its own for a decision; it is usually repeated after an interval. Because sperm production takes weeks, a recent febrile illness or certain medications can affect a result temporarily.

This page is for general information and does not replace an examination, a diagnosis or personal medical advice.