Fertility Glossary

TESE

Testicular sperm extraction — taking small pieces of testicular tissue to find sperm.

Male fertility

TESE is an open procedure in which small samples of testicular tissue are removed through a tiny incision and examined by an embryologist for sperm. It is used mainly in non-obstructive azoospermia, where sperm production is impaired. Recovered sperm are used with ICSI.

Also known as: testicular sperm extraction

Related South Africa guides

Azoospermia and surgical sperm retrieval in South Africa

Sources

ESHRE guidelines and patient information

Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

Related terms

Micro-TESE

Microsurgical TESE, using an operating microscope to find the most promising tubules.

TESA

Testicular sperm aspiration — drawing sperm directly from the testis with a needle.

Azoospermia

No sperm found in the ejaculate.

Surgical sperm retrieval

Collecting sperm directly from the testis or epididymis with a procedure.

Explore in-depth guides

Learn more with Antega's fertility guides and articles.

Browse guides