PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to retrieve sperm directly from the epididymis in men with obstructive azoospermia (a condition where no sperm is present in the ejaculate due to a blockage or absence of the vas deferens). This procedure is commonly used in combination with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) to achieve fertilization in assisted reproductive techniques like IVF.
PESA is typically recommended for men who are unable to produce sperm in their ejaculate due to:
* Congenital absence of the vas deferens
* Vasectomy or failed vasectomy reversal
* Blockages due to infections or injury
* Certain genetic or medical conditions
* The procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
* A fine needle is inserted through the skin of the scrotum into the epididymis to aspirate fluid that contains sperm.
* The retrieved sperm is examined under a microscope in the lab.
* If viable sperm are found, they are used for fertilization via ICSI during the IVF cycle.
PESA is usually completed in under 30 minutes and does not require stitches or extended recovery time.
* Minimally invasive: No major surgery is needed.
* Quick recovery:Most men return to normal activities within a day.
* Effective solution:Especially for men with obstructive azoospermia.
* Cost-effective:Compared to more complex surgical sperm retrieval techniques.
While PESA is generally safe, there are a few potential risks:
* Mild pain or swelling at the needle insertion site
* Infection or bleeding (rare)
* Need for repeat procedure if enough sperm is not retrieved in one session
Your fertility specialist will discuss all options and risks in detail before scheduling the procedure.
Since the retrieved sperm from PESA are not motile enough for conventional IVF, they are directly injected into the egg using ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). This combined approach significantly improves the chances of fertilization and successful pregnancy.
At Fertylity IVF , we offer advanced fertility treatments with a compassionate approach. Our skilled andrologists and embryologists specialize in microsurgical sperm retrieval techniques, ensuring the highest success rates while minimizing discomfort.
* State-of-the-art fertility lab
* Personalized fertility plans
* Experienced urologists and IVF experts
* Transparent communication and support throughout your journey
PESA is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia, so there is little to no pain during the process. Some men may experience mild discomfort or swelling afterward, but it usually subsides within a day or two.
The procedure typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes. It is usually done as a day-care procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
No, sperm retrieved through PESA are not motile enough for conventional IVF. Instead, they are used with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to achieve fertilization.
PESA has a high success rate in retrieving sperm, especially in men with obstructive azoospermia. However, success also depends on the cause of infertility and the expertise of the medical team.
In some cases, sperm retrieved from one PESA procedure can be frozen (cryopreserved) and used in future IVF/ICSI cycles. If the quantity or quality of sperm is insufficient, the procedure may need to be repeated.
PESA retrieves sperm from the epididymis using a fine needle, while:
* TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) extracts sperm directly from the testicle.
* TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) is a more invasive surgical procedure where a small amount of testicular tissue is removed.
Your doctor will recommend the best method based on your specific condition.