The Art Of Sperm Extraction
Sperm extraction, also known as sperm retrieval, is a tool used to help men struggling with fertility. The male body has two testicles at the base of the penis that house sperm. Sperm travels through a duct and mixes with other fluids before leaving the body through ejaculation.
How do doctors extract sperm?
Doctors perform two basic types of sperm extraction: surgical and non-surgical. Non-surgical procedures can be done as an outpatient service and require little to no recovery time. Surgical procedures are a bit more invasive, and patients may need general anesthesia. Surgical sperm extraction procedures include testicular sperm extraction, testicular sperm aspiration, microsurgical epididymal sperm aspiration, and percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration. Non-surgical procedures include penile vibratory stimulation and electroejaculation. The following are signs that a man may want to consider sperm extraction.
1. The patient shows signs of obstructive azoospermia
Obstructive azoospermia causes the body to block sperm from exiting the penis. Usually, the condition is caused by a birth defect or medical issue that blocks sperm from leaving the epididymis, vans deferens, or ejaculation duct.
2. The patient does not ejaculate during sex
Non-obstructive azoospermia is a condition that prevents the body from making sperm. Unlike obstructive azoospermia, which blocks the sperm, non-obstructive azoospermia stops the body from producing sperm. Likewise, some patients with the condition can make sperm, but the levels are so low the sperm cannot be used. There are two other conditions that relate to non-obstructive azoospermia. Anejaculation prevents seminal fluid from entering the urethra. Retrograde ejaculation occurs when semen enters the urethra and reverts to the bladder. These conditions can be caused by injuries like spinal cord injuries or diseases like advanced diabetes.
3. The patient has a severe medical condition
Some medical conditions significantly contribute to male infertility. Serious injuries and diseases have aftereffects that may render a man infertile. Additionally, significant surgeries such as pelvic surgery or treatments like chemotherapy drugs can lead to infertility. Patients dealing with these circumstances may notice non-obstructive azoospermia or obstructive azoospermia.
Speak to a specialist
A specialist can help a patient understand the signs of infertility and the sperm extraction process. Speak to a fertility specialist and get the proper testing done before getting the procedure. Schedule an appointment today to learn more.