In the first three conditions, sperm are produced by the testes, but are unable to be ejaculated because of the blockage or absence of the vas. The man can still ejaculate seminal fluid but this fluid will not contain any sperm. It is possible to collect sperm directly from the epididymis. Occasionally it may be possible to surgically unblock the tube that carries the sperm during the ejaculation process, although this has a low success rate. In cases of vasectomy surgical correction in the form of vasectomy reversal may offer another treatment to this problem.
Sperm harvesting is entirely different from a diagnostic testicular biopsy because, in this setting, the goal is not to identify what is happening in the testis but instead it is to find sperm. Only men with no sperm in their ejaculate azoospermia need to have sperm retrieved directly from the testis or epididymis. This may involve a simple aspiration for men who have a blockage or require much more extensive sampling of the testis for men who have a sperm production problem. As a result, there is a significant difference in the amount of time it takes, the need for anesthesia and the equipment utilized. Very few tests allow for an accurate prediction of whether or not sperm will be found in the testes of men with testicular problems.
Vasectomy is currently one of the most common methods of sterilization in the United States. After your vasectomy, if you change your mind about having children, there are two procedures that can help you have a child with your partner. The two options are: a vasectomy reversal or sperm aspiration prior to in vitro fertilization IVF. Your doctor can help you choose which procedure is better for you and your partner based on:. The first thing to do is see a urologist.
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