The Definition Of Sperm Retrieval
Sperm retrieval is a method of assisted reproductive technology that helps men who are struggling with fertility to conceive. Sperm retrieval is a common technique used during in vitro fertilization (IVF). There are various forms of sperm retrieval broken down into two groups: surgical and non-surgical. Non-surgical procedures are meant for men that still have the ability to ejaculate. Surgical procedures are used for men that have azoospermia, a medical condition that eliminates the sperm from semen.
Types of sperm retrieval procedures
Two types of non-surgical sperm retrieval procedures are penile vibratory stimulation and electroejaculation. With electroejaculation, healthcare providers use a probe to send electric shots to the prostate to stimulate ejaculation. Surgical procedures are mainly used to retrieve sperm directly from the testes, the male reproductive tract. Examples of surgical sperm retrieval are testicular sperm extraction, testicular sperm aspiration, and microsurgical epididymal sperm aspiration. If sperm retrieval is something a patient is considering, read on to learn about the benefits of the procedure.
1. High success rates
Whether doctors perform non-surgical or surgical retrieval procedures, the general consensus is that sperm retrieval is largely successful. A study revealed that surgical sperm retrieval worked for 100% of patients with obstructive azoospermia and 61% of patients with non-obstructive azoospermia. Compared to other fertility procedures, these rates are high and prove that sperm retrieval is an effective fertility treatment.
2. The procedure is relatively painless
One of the biggest concerns patients have regarding fertility treatments is the pain associated with a procedure. Although doctors are extracting sperm directly from the reproductive tract and penis, patients feel little to no pain during sperm retrieval. Doctors use small instruments like needles and probes that are minimally invasive. Providers also use local or general anesthesia to neutralize the area prior to the procedure. Patients don’t need a lot of recovery time and can return to regular activity within a couple of days.
3. Men with vasectomies can use sperm retrieval to have more children
Although some vasectomies are reversible, the surgery can be a difficult and complicated. Men with vasectomies can still produce sperm and the sperm lives within the testes. Surgical sperm retrieval allows doctors to harvest sperm from the testicles without obstructing the vasectomy.
Speak with a healthcare provider
Patients interested in sperm retrieval must consult a fertility specialist. Not only can fertility specialists offer advice and additional information about procedures, but fertility providers can also identify and diagnose fertility problems that patients may be unaware of. Schedule an appointment today to get started.
