Sperm Retrieval Surgery
Our urologists offer advanced procedures to collect sperm for in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments.
Medically reviewed by Marc Dall'Era, M.D. on April 07, 2026.
Expertise in Minimally Invasive Sperm Retrieval Procedures
Sperm retrieval surgery is a treatment option for infertility due to low sperm count or an inability to ejaculate. The collected sperm can be used in fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Sperm retrieval is also used for male fertility preservation to help people have children later.
UC Davis urology specialists have expertise in several advanced, minimally invasive techniques to collect sperm. These procedures require only a needle or very small incisions and are performed with local anesthesia, most often on an outpatient basis. Our compassionate team is here to help you achieve your reproductive goals.
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Surgical Approaches
Our caring, knowledgeable urologic surgery team discusses your treatment options with you. They recommend a surgical approach based on your condition and health needs. We follow the highest standards of patient care and safety.
Microdissection Testicular Sperm Extraction (Micro-TESE)
Micro-TESE is a sperm retrieval option for people with non-obstructive azoospermia, a condition where your ejaculate doesn’t contain sperm. Your urologist uses tiny incisions and a powerful surgical microscope to look inside your testicle. They remove a small sample of testicular tissue containing sperm. Sperm collected with micro-TESE are usually used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a form of IVF. Micro-TESE requires general anesthesia.
Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA)
MESA collects sperm from your testicle using small incisions and a surgical microscope. This procedure can retrieve many sperm for use in multiple IVF cycles or fertility preservation. MESA requires general anesthesia.
Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA)
Your urologist uses a thin needle to gently pull sperm from your testicles. TESA can also help your provider diagnose or treat azoospermia, which means there is no sperm in your ejaculate. The procedure usually requires only local anesthesia.
Transurethral Resection of Ejaculatory Ducts (TURED)
TURED is a treatment option when your ejaculatory duct is partially or completely blocked. Your urologist corrects the blockage using a small camera and tools inserted into your urethra. TURED requires general anesthesia.
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What to Expect
Sperm retrieval surgery is usually a minor, outpatient procedure. You go home the same day as your procedure. If you have general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home. Your care team will discuss how you should prepare for surgery and your recovery instructions. Following these instructions will help you have the best possible outcome.
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Beginning the Procedure
If you have general anesthesia, you receive medicine in an IV that makes you sleep during the procedure and not feel pain. For local anesthesia, your urologist injects numbing medication around the surgical site, so you won’t feel discomfort.
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During Surgery
A sperm retrieval procedure can take minutes to hours, depending on the type of surgery. Your urologist uses precise techniques to protect your reproductive tract.
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Recovery
Your recovery time will depend on your procedure and usually ranges from a few days to a week.
Home Care
Your care team will discuss your at-home recovery instructions and surgical site care, if needed.
Medications
You may receive pain medication for discomfort after your procedure. Your provider may also prescribe antibiotics to lower the risk of infection.
Supportive Care
Ice packs can help reduce pain and swelling after surgery. Your care team may recommend a jockstrap to support your testicles until you are healed. You may need to avoid heavy lifting for up to 10 days.
Returning to Work
Most people can return to work within a day or two. You may need to wait five or more days to return to strenuous work.
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