Testicular Sperm vs Ejaculated Sperm: Which Is Better?

Testicular Sperm vs Ejaculated Sperm is a common topic which is very important to understand for those couples who are searching for fertility treatments. Both these types of sperm are used to help in conception. However, their quality and use in procedures like IVF or ICSI can be different. There are many people who don’t realize there’s a difference until they start fertility testing or are advised a specific method based on their medical condition.

At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi, Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist, has helped many couples to understand these differences and choose the right treatment. In this blog, we will explain everything about Testicular Sperm vs Ejaculated Sperm. We will also include when each is used, how they are collected, and more.

What Is Testicular Sperm?

Testicular sperm are sperm cells that are directly taken from the testicles by using a small medical procedure. These sperm have not yet passed through the male reproductive system and are usually collected when sperm is not found in the semen (a condition called azoospermia). 

In some men, sperm production happens in the testicles, but the sperm do not travel into the semen due to a blockage or other problem. In such cases, doctors use a method called TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) or TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) to collect the sperm.

These sperm are often not fully matured like the ones found in semen. However, they can still be used for fertility treatments like IVF and ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). ICSI with testicular sperm is often used when there is no sperm in the ejaculate. This helps couples to get pregnant through advanced fertility treatment.

What Is Ejaculated Sperm?

Ejaculated sperm are sperm cells that are released from the male body during ejaculation. These sperm are produced in the testicles and then travel through the male reproductive system. Additionally, they get mixed with other fluids to form semen. When a man ejaculates, this semen, which contains millions of active and mature sperm, comes out through the penis.

Ejaculated sperm are usually fully developed and ready to fertilize an egg. In most fertility treatments, such as IUI or IVF, ejaculated sperm is mostly done. Additionally, it’s easier to collect and has better movement (motility) and shape (morphology) in comparison to sperm which is taken directly from the testicles.

How Are They Collected?

Between testicular sperm vs ejaculated sperm, both are collected by using different methods based on the individual’s health. Ejaculated sperm is usually collected through masturbation into a sterile container. This is basically a simple and non-invasive process.

On the other hand, testicular sperm is collected through a minor procedure like TESA or TESE. In this, a small tissue sample is taken from the testicles to extract sperm. This is done when sperm is missing in semen or ejaculation isn’t possible.

Testicular Sperm vs Ejaculated Sperm: Key Differences

Testicular sperm vs ejaculated sperm differ in several important ways, especially when it comes to fertility treatments. It’s important to understand these differences to help doctors to choose the right treatment for every couple.

When Is Testicular Sperm Used?

Testicular sperm is used when there is no sperm or very little sperm in a man’s semen. This can happen due to medical problems like blocked tubes, past surgery (like vasectomy), or a condition called azoospermia (no sperm in semen). In such cases, sperm is taken directly from the testicles.

It is also used when the sperm in the semen is not strong or healthy enough for fertilization. Additionally, doctors may suggest trying testicular sperm instead if IVF has failed before using ejaculated sperm.

Success Rates: Testicular Sperm vs Ejaculated Sperm

The success of fertility treatment can depend on the type of sperm that is used. Ejaculated sperm has a slightly higher chance of helping with pregnancy because it is more mature and usually swims better.

The success rate is usually between 40% to 60% per cycle when ejaculated sperm is used in IVF or ICSI.

Additionally, the sperm retrieval success rate is a bit lower when testicular sperm is used and it is around 30% to 50% per cycle. However, it still works well, especially for men who don’t have sperm in their semen or had problems in earlier treatments.

Advantages and Challenges of Testicular Sperm

Testicular sperm can be helpful for men who cannot release sperm naturally or have very low sperm counts. However, it also comes with some disadvantages. Below are some points to help you know about the advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

• It is helpful for men with no sperm in semen (azoospermia).
• It may have less DNA damage than ejaculated sperm.
• Testicular sperm gives a chance to have a biological child.

Disadvantages:

• It requires a small surgical procedure to collect sperm.
• In this, only a few sperm may be retrieved.
• Testicular sperm often needs advanced IVF techniques like ICSI.

Advantages and Challenges of Ejaculated Sperm

Ejaculated sperm is the most common and natural way to collect sperm for fertility treatments. It is usually easier to get and is often the first choice in assisted reproduction. Here’s a simple look at the advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

• This is easy and non-invasive to collect.
• This usually contains a higher number of sperm.
• Ejaculated sperm works well for IUI and IVF in most cases.

Disadvantages:

• In this, sperm may have lower quality in some men.
• It can have more DNA damage in certain conditions.
• This is not an option for men with ejaculation problems or blocked tubes.

Role of Sperm Quality in Fertility Treatments

Sperm quality is very important when someone is trying to have a baby through fertility treatments. It affects how likely it is for the sperm to reach and fertilize the egg.

Doctors look at some things, including how many sperm are there, how they move, and if they look normal. A difference in sperm quality can also affect the success of treatments like IUI, IVF, or ICSI. If the sperm is weak or unhealthy then it may be difficult to get pregnant. That’s why doctors do a semen test first and suggest the best treatment which is based on sperm health.

Final Words: Which Sperm Type May Be Right for You?

Testicular Sperm vs Ejaculated Sperm is an important topic for couples who are going through fertility treatments. In this blog, we’ve explained both types of sperm, how they are collected, when they are used, and their success rates. It’s important to know the difference to choose the best if you’re facing male infertility issues.

At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior Fertility Specialist and Gynaecologist) has helped many couples to find the best treatment. If you have any questions or want to understand which sperm type is better for your condition, feel free to call us at 95555 44421/22/23 or email at [email protected].

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Is testicular sperm better than ejaculated sperm?

It depends. If ejaculated sperm is healthy, it’s preferred. But in some cases, testicular sperm may work better, especially if sperm quality is low or missing in semen.

• What is the success rate of testicular sperm extraction?

Success rates range from 30% to 70%, depending on the reason for infertility and the method used.

• What happens to ejaculated sperm?

Ejaculated sperm comes out in semen. In fertility treatment, it’s collected, cleaned (washed), and used if it meets quality.

• How painful is testicular sperm extraction?

The procedure isn’t painful because anesthesia is used. Mild pain or swelling after can happen but usually goes away in a few days.