PESA Sperm Retrieval Procedure Post-Vasectomy

PESA is a straightforward outpatient procedure that usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes. It’s performed under local anaesthetic, although sedation may sometimes be offered if appropriate.

Before the procedure, you’ll attend a consultation with one of our specialists. They’ll review your medical history, discuss your fertility goals, explain the procedure, and answer any questions you may have.

During the procedure:

1. A local anaesthetic is injected into the skin of the scrotum to numb the area.

2. A very fine needle is inserted through the skin into the epididymis.

3. Fluid containing sperm is gently aspirated through the needle.

4. The sample is examined by an embryologist or laboratory specialist to confirm the presence of healthy sperm.

5. Additional samples may be taken if needed.

In many cases, sperm retrieved during PESA can be frozen and stored for future fertility treatment. If enough sperm is collected, you may not need the procedure repeated in the future.

After a vasectomy, sperm can no longer travel through the reproductive tract because the vas deferens has been sealed or divided. However, sperm production within the testicles usually continues normally.

PESA offers a less invasive alternative to vasectomy reversal for men who:

• have previously had a vasectomy and wish to have children

• are planning IVF or ICSI treatment with a partner

• prefer sperm retrieval rather than reversal surgery

• are not suitable candidates for vasectomy reversal

• have had an unsuccessful vasectomy reversal in the past

Your consultant will discuss whether PESA is the most suitable option based on your fertility history, age, previous surgeries, and treatment goals.

PESA is considered to be a very safe procedure with a low risk of complications. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Potential risks include:

• mild bruising or swelling of the scrotum

• temporary discomfort or tenderness

• bleeding at the needle insertion site

• infection, although this is uncommon

• failure to retrieve enough sperm for treatment

• the need for an alternative sperm retrieval procedure if sperm cannot be collected successfully

Rarely, patients may experience more prolonged discomfort after the procedure. Your consultant will explain all potential risks during your consultation.

Your consultant will provide clear instructions before your procedure to help you prepare.

You may be advised to:

• avoid taking blood-thinning medications before treatment, if medically appropriate

• shave or trim the scrotal area before your appointment

• wear supportive underwear on the day of the procedure

• arrange for someone to accompany you home if you’re having sedation

In some cases, you may also need screening blood tests before fertility treatment can begin.

Most men recover quickly after PESA and can return home shortly after the procedure.

It’s common to experience mild swelling, bruising, or aching in the scrotum for a few days afterwards. This usually improves with rest and over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

To support recovery, your consultant may recommend:

• resting for the remainder of the day after treatment

• avoiding strenuous activity and heavy lifting for several days

• avoiding sexual activity for around 1 week

• wearing supportive underwear to reduce discomfort

• keeping the area clean and dry

Most patients return to work and normal daily activities within 1 to 2 days, depending on the nature of their job.

If you develop increasing pain, swelling, redness, fever, or bleeding after the procedure, you should contact your consultant for advice.

Success rates for PESA are generally high in men who have had a vasectomy because sperm production is usually unaffected.

In many cases, enough sperm can be retrieved for IVF or ICSI treatment and for freezing for future use. However, success can depend on several factors, including:

• how long ago the vasectomy was performed

• the quality and quantity of sperm present

• previous surgeries or scarring

• underlying fertility factors affecting either partner

Your fertility specialist will discuss the likelihood of successful sperm retrieval and fertility treatment during your consultation.

Please contact the centre for pricing and payment information.

At Welbeck, our urology and fertility specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments

To book a PESA procedure, you must be referred by either your GP or a fertility or urology specialist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.