TESA — precise sperm retrieval
for your path to fatherhood.
Testicular Sperm Aspiration performed by experienced andrologists — a minimally invasive procedure that helps couples facing male-factor infertility move forward with IVF/ICSI treatment.
What Is TESA?
TESA, or Testicular Sperm Aspiration, is a simple, minimally invasive procedure used to collect sperm directly from testicular tissue for couples facing male factor infertility.
A Direct Route to Retrieving Sperm
TESA uses a fine needle, guided under local anaesthesia, to draw a small sample of tissue and fluid from the testicle. The sample is examined immediately in the lab to identify usable sperm.
It's most commonly used for men diagnosed with azoospermia — where no sperm is found in the ejaculate — and is often the first step before proceeding with IVF/ICSI to help achieve conception.
As a day-care procedure, TESA typically takes under 30 minutes, requires no incision or stitches, and allows most men to return home the same day.
When Is TESA Considered?
Your fertility specialist recommends TESA after evaluating semen analysis results, hormone levels, and a physical examination.
When Sperm Production Is Normal but Blocked
Sperm is being produced normally, but a blockage in the reproductive tract prevents it from reaching the ejaculate.
- Prior vasectomy or blocked vas deferens
- Congenital absence of the vas deferens
- Infection-related scarring or blockage
When Sperm Production Itself Is Affected
Sperm production is reduced due to a testicular factor, though small pockets of sperm may still be present in the tissue.
- Hormonal imbalances affecting sperm production
- Genetic factors influencing fertility
- Previous testicular injury, infection, or surgery
When Semen Samples Show No Sperm
Repeated semen analyses show zero sperm count, even though other fertility parameters appear otherwise normal.
- Confirmed azoospermia on semen analysis
- Normal hormone profile suggesting a retrievable cause
When Assisted Reproduction Needs a Sperm Source
Couples proceeding with IVF/ICSI where ejaculated sperm is unavailable or unsuitable for use.
- Male partner diagnosed with azoospermia
- Fresh or previously frozen TESA sample required for ICSI
How TESA Works
Here's what to expect on the day of your TESA procedure at Sanjeevini Hospital.
Pre-Procedure Evaluation
Your specialist reviews semen analysis, hormone reports, and overall health to confirm TESA is the right approach.
Local Anaesthesia
A local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area, keeping the procedure comfortable and pain-free.
Sperm Aspiration
A fine needle is gently inserted into the testicle to aspirate a small sample of tissue and fluid.
Lab Examination
The sample is examined immediately under a microscope by our embryology team to identify viable sperm.
Recovery & Same-Day Discharge
A short rest period follows, after which most men are discharged the same day with simple aftercare advice.
TESA + IVF/ICSI
TESA is rarely a standalone step — it's typically paired with IVF/ICSI to give the retrieved sperm the best chance of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Sperm Retrieval via TESA
Sperm is retrieved from the testicle and assessed for viability by the embryology lab, often on the same day as egg collection.
ICSI Fertilisation
A single viable sperm is injected directly into a mature egg using ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), maximising fertilisation chances.
Embryo Transfer
Resulting embryos are cultured and monitored, with the healthiest embryo selected for transfer as part of your IVF cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to what couples most often ask before undergoing TESA.