MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) is a surgical procedure that helps to retrieve sperm from the epididymis, which is a coiled tube where sperm is stored. This procedure helps those who have male infertility issues. MESA is a technique that has helped many men to become biological fathers. However, it’s very important to know about this technique and choose the best.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist) has helped many couples who are facing male infertility issues. Her experience with procedures like MESA has helped them to grow their family. In this blog, we will explain everything about MESA. We will explain its process, purpose, who it is for, and more.
What is MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)?
MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) is a procedure which is used to collect sperm directly from the epididymis. Epididymis is a small tube behind the testicles where sperm is stored. It is done with the help of a microscope to make sure the process is done correctly and safely.
This method is usually suggested when a man cannot release sperm naturally due to a blockage or other medical reason, even though his body is still producing healthy sperm. The collected sperm can then be used in fertility treatments like IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) or ICSI (IntraCytoplasmic Sperm Injection) to help couples to get pregnant.
MESA is a planned, surgical procedure that is done by a trained specialist. It is usually painless as it is performed under anesthesia. However, it’s very important to consult your fertility specialist before making any decision.
Why is MESA Done in Male Infertility Cases?
MESA is done in male infertility cases when sperm is not coming out in the semen, even though it is being made inside the body. This often happens due to a blockage or damage in the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles.
Some common reasons include:
- A man is born without the vas deferens (a tube that carries sperm).
- The tubes are blocked due to infection or past surgery.
- There is a failed vasectomy reversal.
In these cases, MESA allows doctors to take sperm directly from where it is stored, without needing it to come out in the usual way. The collected sperm can then be used in treatments like IVF or ICSI to help the couple to get pregnant. It’s a useful option when natural sperm release is not possible.
Who Needs MESA?
MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) is usually done for men who cannot release sperm naturally because of a blockage in their reproductive system. In this, their body makes sperm but it doesn’t come out in the semen. This procedure helps in collecting sperm directly for fertility treatment.
Someone may need MESA if they:
- They were born without the vas deferens (a tube that carries sperm).
- Had a vasectomy but now they want to have children.
- Have a blockage due to an old infection or injury.
- Have obstructive azoospermia (no sperm in semen due to blockage).
- Other sperm retrieval methods like TESA were not successful.
How is the MESA Procedure Performed?
MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) is a minor surgery that helps to collect sperm from the epididymis. It is done when sperm can’t be released naturally due to a blockage or other reason.
Here’s how the procedure is done:
- The patient is given local or general anesthesia.
- A small cut is made in the scrotum to reach the epididymis.
- Doctors use a special microscope and carefully remove fluid that contains sperm.
- The collected sperm is checked in the lab and frozen (if needed) for later use in IVF with ICSI.
- The cut is then closed and the patient is asked to rest and recover.
MESA vs. Other Sperm Retrieval Methods (like PESA, TESA)
Doctors retrieve sperm directly from the body by using special methods when men have no sperm in their semen due to a blockage or other problem. MESA, PESA, and TESA are three common techniques that are used for this purpose.
Let’s understand the difference between them:
MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)
- This is a small surgery which uses a microscope to collect sperm from the epididymis.
- This gives a large number of healthy and high-quality sperm.
- MESA is usually done in a hospital with anesthesia.
- This is best for men with a blockage or vasectomy.
PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)
- In this procedure, a needle is used to pull sperm from the epididymis without surgery.
- This is a quick and simple procedure which is done under local anesthesia.
- PESA gives fewer sperm in comparison to MESA.
- This may need to be repeated if enough sperm are not found.
TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration)
- A needle is used in this procedure to collect sperm directly from the testicle.
- This is often used when there is no sperm in the epididymis.
- This can be done on the same day as IVF.
- TESA is useful for men with non-obstructive azoospermia.
Success Rate of MESA in Fertility Treatments
MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) is often a successful method to collect sperm from men who have a blockage or have had a vasectomy. The success rate depends on many factors like the man’s health, the skill of the surgeon, and the overall fertility condition of the couple.
In most cases, MESA can retrieve a good number of live and healthy sperm. These sperm are usually used with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) in IVF. MESA can have a very high sperm retrieval success rate, often above 90% in cases with known blockages.
However, the final success also depends on:
- The quality of eggs
- The age and health of the female partner
- The IVF process
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi and her team have helped many couples by using MESA as part of their fertility journey. MESA can be a good option for couples who are facing male infertility issues.
Final Thoughts: Is MESA Right for You?
MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) is a helpful procedure for men who face some types of infertility. This is especially helpful when sperm cannot come out naturally due to blockages or other issues. In this blog, we’ve explained what MESA is, why it’s done, who may need it, how it’s performed, and more. This information can help you to understand whether MESA might be the right step in your fertility journey.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist) has supported many couples where MESA was the best option for male infertility. If you’re exploring sperm retrieval methods or need expert guidance for fertility treatment, feel free to reach out. Call us at 95555 44421/22/23 or email us at doctor@risaaivf.com.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is MESA Painful or Risky?
MESA is done under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some mild swelling or discomfort may happen afterward, but serious risks are rare when done by experienced doctors.
What Happens After MESA?
After MESA, the retrieved sperm is either used right away with ICSI or frozen for future use. Most men recover within a few days and can return to normal activities soon.
What is the role of IVF or ICSI with MESA?
Since the sperm collected through MESA can’t fertilize eggs naturally, it is usually used with ICSI (a form of IVF) to help achieve pregnancy.
How can I get pregnant with sperm aspiration?
Pregnancy is possible when the sperm collected during MESA is injected directly into the egg using ICSI. This combination has helped many couples dealing with male infertility.