Fertility Glossary

Azoospermia

Last updated: March 2026 · Medically reviewed by Dr. Adnan Jabbar

Azoospermia is the complete absence of sperm in ejaculated semen, affecting approximately 1% of all men and 10–15% of infertile men. It is classified as obstructive (blockage preventing sperm release) or non-obstructive (impaired sperm production), each requiring a distinct treatment pathway. Micro-TESE retrieval successfully finds sperm in 50–60% of non-obstructive cases.

Of all men have azoospermia; 10–15% of infertile men (WHO, 2021)

50–60%

Micro-TESE sperm retrieval success rate (non-obstructive) (Schlegel, UROLOGY, 2019)

90%+

Retrieval success in obstructive azoospermia via PESA/TESA (ASRM, 2022)

Obstructive vs Non-obstructive Azoospermia

Obstructive (OA)

Sperm is produced normally but blocked from reaching the ejaculate — due to vasectomy, infection-related scarring (e.g., Chlamydia, TB), or congenital absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD). PESA or TESA can retrieve sperm in 90%+ of cases.

Non-obstructive (NOA)

Sperm production is impaired at the testicular level — due to genetic causes (Klinefelter syndrome, Y chromosome deletions), hormonal failure, or unknown factors. Micro-TESE retrieves sperm from focal production sites in 50–60% of cases.

Related terms

ICSI IVF

Frequently asked questions about Azoospermia

What is azoospermia?

Azoospermia is the complete absence of sperm in ejaculated semen. It is diagnosed on two separate semen analyses with centrifugation of the sample.

Can men with azoospermia have children?

Yes. In obstructive azoospermia, sperm can almost always be retrieved surgically (90%+ success). In non-obstructive azoospermia, Micro-TESE retrieves sperm in approximately 50–60% of cases, which can then be used for ICSI.

What is the difference between obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia?

Obstructive azoospermia (OA) means sperm is produced but cannot exit due to a blockage (e.g., vasectomy, infection). Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) means impaired sperm production in the testes themselves.

What is Micro-TESE?

Micro-TESE (Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction) is a surgical procedure performed under an operating microscope to identify and extract sperm-producing tubules from the testis in men with NOA.

Diagnosed with azoospermia?

Dr. Adnan Jabbar specialises in surgical sperm retrieval and ICSI for azoospermia. Free consultation via WhatsApp.

Discuss Azoospermia Treatment

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