The right infertility treatment for a man depends on what a semen analysis shows and why sperm isn’t reaching the egg. At Bio Art Fertility Clinic in Saxonwold, Johannesburg, the main male options are vasectomy reversal, surgical sperm retrieval and ICSI, and the last two are often used together. A fertility specialist matches the option to your results.
Why Does Male Infertility Treatment Start With a Semen Analysis?
Because every later decision depends on it. Bio Art calls semen analysis the basis for testing male infertility, since it assesses sperm quality and quantity. A low count, poor movement (motility) or unusual shape (morphology) each point toward different options.
That is why a fertility clinic for men and couples starts with results rather than a procedure. The female partner’s age matters too, especially for vasectomy reversal.
How Do the Main Options Compare?
Vasectomy reversal
Microsurgery under an operating microscope rejoins the vas deferens, either to itself or to the epididymis.
- Pro: it aims to restore sperm flow, so a couple can try to conceive naturally.
- Con: Bio Art says it does not encourage reversal. Many men have sperm in their ejaculate afterwards, but most don’t have sperm quality good enough for natural conception.
- Con: results depend on the man’s age, the time since the vasectomy, antisperm antibodies and the woman’s age.
Surgical sperm retrieval
Sperm is taken directly from the epididymis or the testis. Bio Art offers three methods, called MESA, TESE and TESA.
- Pro: MESA is used for men with a blockage in the reproductive tract, such as after a vasectomy.
- Pro: collected sperm can be frozen for later cycles.
- Con: it is a surgical step (TESE and TESA use local anaesthetic), and TESA often retrieves only a low amount of sperm.
- Con: retrieved sperm is used with ICSI, so the female partner goes through an IVF cycle.
ICSI
During an IVF cycle, a single sperm is injected into each egg using very fine micro-manipulation equipment.
- Pro: it suits low sperm count, low motility or morphology, anti-sperm antibodies, or a previous vasectomy or failed reversal.
- Pro: it is also an option when standard IVF gave poor or no fertilisation.
- Con: it is part of a full IVF cycle for the female partner.
Which Option Suits Your Situation?
Take a man who had a vasectomy years ago, with a partner in her late thirties. Both of those factors are on Bio Art’s list, and the clinic names sperm aspiration followed by ICSI as the ideal alternative when reversal won’t do the job.
A different man, with no blockage but a low count or poor motility, would more likely be guided toward ICSI with his own sperm. Bio Art does not run a sperm bank, so donor sperm is not one of these options. Your specialist confirms the route only after testing.
What Happens at Your First Visit?
Plan for 30 to 90 minutes and bring your medical records and questions. After admin, you may get a free mini consult with the in-house psychologist, then see a fertility specialist.
The nurses’ station follows, and a semen analysis or theatre date is booked only if recommended. The specialist may outline a possible plan, and a follow-up visit is booked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vasectomy reversal or sperm retrieval the better choice?
Neither is right for everyone. Bio Art does not encourage reversal, because most men won’t regain sperm quality good enough for natural conception, and it names sperm aspiration followed by ICSI as the ideal alternative. Your age, your partner’s age and the time since your vasectomy all shape the advice you receive.
Can sperm be frozen for later treatment?
Yes. Bio Art offers sperm and embryo cryopreservation using vitrification, and sperm collected during aspiration can be frozen and stored. Ask your specialist how much sperm is likely to be retrieved in your case.
When can I book a first consultation?
Bio Art Fertility Clinic is open Monday to Wednesday and Friday from 07:00 to 15:30, and Thursday from 09:00 to 15:30. It is closed on weekends. Contact the clinic during these hours to book, and bring your medical records and questions.
