Treatment Overview
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) and ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) using retrieved sperm are advanced assisted reproductive technologies designed to help couples conceive when male infertility is present. Sperm can be retrieved through procedures such as TESA, PESA, or Micro-TESE for men with azoospermia or severely low sperm counts. Korean clinics combine these techniques with high-precision IVF/ICSI protocols to maximize fertilization and pregnancy success rates.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purposes of IVF/ICSI using retrieved sperm are:
- Achieving fertilization in couples where natural conception is unlikely due to male infertility
- Overcoming azoospermia or poor sperm quality
- Allowing couples to have biological children using the male partner’s sperm
Benefits include:
- High success rates compared to other fertility interventions for severe male-factor infertility
- Enables biological parenthood despite azoospermia or other sperm retrieval challenges
- Minimally invasive sperm retrieval options combined with advanced laboratory techniques
- Supports family planning and reduces the need for donor sperm in suitable cases
Ideal Candidates
IVF/ICSI using retrieved sperm is recommended for:
- Men with azoospermia (obstructive or non-obstructive)
- Individuals with very low sperm count or poor sperm motility
- Couples who have experienced repeated IVF failures using ejaculated sperm
- Men with a history of testicular surgery or genetic infertility factors
- Couples seeking assisted reproduction using the male partner’s biological sperm
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, IVF/ICSI using retrieved sperm involves potential risks:
- Discomfort or minor complications from sperm retrieval procedures (e.g., TESA, Micro-TESE)
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in the female partner
- Multiple pregnancies if more than one embryo is transferred
- Emotional stress related to fertility treatments and outcome uncertainty
Proper clinical care and monitoring minimize risks and ensure patient safety.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean clinics use advanced techniques for IVF/ICSI with retrieved sperm:
- TESA, PESA, Micro-TESE – Minimally invasive or microsurgical sperm retrieval
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) – Direct injection of a single sperm into an egg
- Embryo culture systems – High-precision incubators for optimal embryo development
- Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) – Optional screening for genetic abnormalities
- Cryopreservation – Storage of retrieved sperm and embryos for future use
These technologies ensure the highest chances of fertilization and healthy embryo development.
Treatment Process in Korea
The typical process includes:
- Initial Consultation: Review of medical and reproductive history
- Sperm Retrieval: TESA, PESA, or Micro-TESE performed to obtain viable sperm
- Oocyte Retrieval: Egg collection from the female partner following ovarian stimulation
- Fertilization: Sperm injected into eggs via ICSI in the laboratory
- Embryo Culture & Transfer: Embryos cultured and transferred to the uterus
- Follow-Up: Monitoring for pregnancy and ongoing reproductive care
Recovery & After-Care
- Male recovery depends on the sperm retrieval method used; minor discomfort or swelling may occur
- Female recovery includes monitoring for post-egg retrieval and embryo transfer effects
- Follow-up includes pregnancy testing, ultrasound monitoring, and guidance on lifestyle and nutrition
- Emotional and psychological support is recommended throughout the process
Results & Longevity
- IVF/ICSI with retrieved sperm offers high fertilization and pregnancy success rates
- Cryopreserved sperm allows multiple IVF cycles without repeated retrieval procedures
- Enables biological parenthood for couples with male-factor infertility
- Long-term follow-up supports reproductive health and family planning
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a leading destination for IVF/ICSI with retrieved sperm due to:
- Experienced reproductive endocrinologists and embryologists
- State-of-the-art sperm retrieval and embryology laboratories
- Integration of comprehensive male fertility evaluation with ART
- Confidential, patient-centered, and English-language services
- Competitive pricing and internationally accredited clinics
Cost Range
IVF/ICSI using retrieved sperm in Korea typically costs $5,000 to $12,000 USD per cycle, depending on sperm retrieval method, medications, and additional services such as genetic testing.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top clinics for IVF/ICSI using retrieved sperm include:
- Banobagi Medical Group – Comprehensive ART and male fertility services
- Grand Seoul Hospital – Advanced IVF/ICSI with sperm retrieval integration
- JK Plastic Surgery & Medical Clinic – Fertility-focused ART and sperm retrieval procedures
- ID Hospital – International patient-friendly reproductive health and IVF/ICSI services
