Azoospermia (Zero Sperm Count)

Azoospermia, the complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate, accounts for 10-15% of all male infertility cases. Many men with azoospermia struggle with the emotional impact of infertility, feelings of uncertainty about treatment options and the challenges of navigating a diagnosis that often comes without symptoms.

Azoospermia occurs primarily due to:

• Sperm production problems – This is often caused by hormonal or genetic conditions

• Blockages in the reproductive tract – These blockages prevent sperm from reaching the ejaculate

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis usually begins with a physical exam and blood tests (such as FSH) to distinguish between production and transport problems. Genetic testing can also identify conditions such as Klinefelter’s syndrome. In some cases, a testicular biopsy may be needed for confirmation.

Our team specializes in treating both obstructive (blockage-related) and non-obstructive (production-related) azoospermia. For men with non-obstructive azoospermia, we offer microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE). This advanced procedure uses a surgical microscope to locate small areas of sperm production within the testicle.

Even when sperm are not detectable in semen, micro-TESE can sometimes identify tiny pockets of sperm, making fertility treatments possible.