Three precise procedures to retrieve sperm directly from the testicle or epididymis.
TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) and PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) help men with azoospermia — when no sperm is present in the ejaculate — retrieve sperm for fertility treatment.
TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) is a surgical option often used when TESA or PESA do not yield sufficient sperm. A small tissue sample is processed in the lab to locate viable sperm cells.
These methods are commonly used where a blockage, injury or prior vasectomy prevents normal sperm release. All three are typically combined with ICSI to achieve fertilisation.
Tailored to the underlying cause.
01 — Obstructive Azoospermia
PESA is often recommended when there is a blockage in the vas deferens or epididymis — due to past vasectomy, infection or a congenital condition.
02 — Non-Obstructive Azoospermia
TESA is typically used when sperm production is limited but still present in the testicular tissue, allowing direct access to viable sperm cells.
03 — When TESE Is Recommended
TESE may be advised when other retrieval techniques are unsuccessful, or when testicular biopsy is needed for diagnosis in severe non-obstructive cases.
Sperm retrieval in Thailand, minimally invasive and precise care.
All three are outpatient procedures. Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two; recovery from TESE is slightly longer but remains safe and well-tolerated.
Step 01
Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration
A fine needle is inserted into the epididymis to collect sperm. Minimally invasive, performed under local anaesthesia with no surgical incision.
Step 02
Testicular Sperm Aspiration
A slightly deeper needle insertion into the testicle extracts sperm-rich tissue. Performed under local anaesthesia or light sedation.
Step 03
Testicular Sperm Extraction
A small incision is made in the scrotum to remove a tissue sample. The sample is examined in the lab to locate viable sperm — used when other methods are insufficient.
Experienced hands, advanced lab.
"Every case is evaluated carefully to determine the most appropriate retrieval technique based on your fertility profile."
- ✦Specialists with extensive experience and high success rates
- ✦Advanced lab technology that maximises sperm viability
- ✦Seamless pairing with our ICSI programme for fertilisation
Common questions.
Are TESA, PESA and TESE painful?
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All three are performed under anaesthesia (local or light sedation, or general for TESE) so the procedure itself is not painful. Mild soreness is common for a day or two afterwards.
How long is the recovery?
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PESA and TESA are outpatient procedures — most men return to normal activities within a day or two. TESE recovery is slightly longer but remains a safe, well-tolerated option.
Will the retrieved sperm be used immediately?
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Sperm retrieved by TESA, PESA or TESE is typically used with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) for fertilisation, either in a fresh cycle or after freezing.
Which procedure is right for me?
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The choice depends on the cause of azoospermia, your medical history and prior treatment results. Our specialists evaluate each case carefully to recommend the most appropriate option.
What are the success rates?
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Success depends on the cause of infertility and the quality of retrieved sperm. Combined with our advanced ICSI lab, these procedures offer strong outcomes for many couples.
Ready to discuss sperm retrieval?
Contact Millennium IVF Clinic for a confidential, free consultation to determine the most appropriate option for you.