Male infertility can be a complex issue to diagnose and treat, but modern medical advancements have made it possible to diagnose and treat many cases with minimally invasive procedures. Two such procedures are percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) and testicular sperm aspiration (TESA).
PESA is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed with local anesthesia. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the epididymis, a small, coiled tube that stores and transports sperm. The needle is used to aspirate (remove) sperm from the epididymis, which can then be used for in vitro fertilization (IVF).
TESA is a similar procedure that involves inserting a needle directly into the testicle to aspirate sperm. This procedure is also performed with local anesthesia and can be used for IVF.
Both PESA and TESA are effective ways to diagnose male infertility without the need for surgery. They are often recommended when other diagnostic tests, such as a semen analysis, have not provided sufficient information. These procedures can also be used as a treatment option for men with infertility caused by sperm blockages or low sperm count.
In addition to PESA and TESA, there are other non-surgical methods of diagnosing male infertility. These include:
Hormone testing: This involves testing blood samples for levels of hormones such as testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH), which can indicate issues with sperm production.
Semen analysis: This involves analyzing a semen sample to check for the quantity, quality, and motility of sperm.
Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging technique can be used to identify blockages or abnormalities in the male reproductive system.
Genetic testing: This can be used to identify any genetic abnormalities that may be causing infertility.
Diagnosing male infertility can be a challenging and emotional process, but with modern medical advancements, there are many options available for diagnosis and treatment without the need for surgery. If you are experiencing infertility issues, it is important to consult with a medical professional who specializes in infertility to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.