By Dr. Asha Gavade , Gynaecology
Oligospermia is the condition where men have a less than adequate amount of sperm cells in their semen. Due to this condition, it may be difficult to reproduce but it is not impossible. However, as a result of oligospermia, men may face certain fertility issues. Low sperm count may be a result of some hormonal issues, and they generally indicate the presence of a medical problem that should be treated as soon as possible. Obesity and diabetes are some conditions that may be associated with oligospermia.
Oligospermia and IVF
When it comes to reproduction, oligospermia may come in the way. That is why, oligospermia males may sometimes opt for the in vitro fertilization method, where the egg is fertilized with the sperm in a laboratory dish and then planted in the female embryo.
What is TESA?
TESA refers to testicular sperm aspiration, which is a surgical procedure that helps in solving problems associated with male fertility. Men who have obstructive azoospermia, which is a condition that leads to negligible or nonexistent sperm count as a result of an obstruction, can opt for TESA.
The surgical procedure only takes around five to ten minutes to complete. The sperm is retrieved, in time with egg retrieval of the female partner when the couple is in the process of undergoing in vitro fertilization in order to have a baby. Doctors insert a needle into the man’s testicle and sperm or tissue is aspirated. Before that, local anesthesia is administered and the procedure may even be carried out in the doctor’s office or clinic. In occasions where enough sperm or tissues are unavailable, an open testicular biopsy may be conducted to move the process along.
Why is TESA the best option for oligospermic males?
In many cases, TESA is the best option because the sperm cannot be retrieved in any other way due to an obstruction. This would be a major hindrance to the smooth progression of the process of IVF pregnancy if not for TESA, which is a safe, short and effective procedure. Men who do not produce sperm in the seminal fluid are specially benefited by TESA.
