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OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility

Male Fertility Services

In our approach to treat the partners in their quest for fertility, the CIRM laboratories specialize in the evaluation of fertility in male patients.

Semen Analysis

One of the most important tests is the semen analysis. The Semen Analysis Laboratory of CIRM performs testing for a number of primary care physicians and urologists in the region. This testing may include complete semen analysis, post-vasectomy checks and seminal fructose determination.

All tests must be scheduled with our appointment desk at (773) 702-6642 and require a physician order which can be faxed before the test to (773) 702-5848. Results of the tests are sent directly to the requesting physician within 24-48 hours.

Semen analysis is performed Monday through Thursdays between the hours of 8:30am and 11:30am.

Sperm Cryopreservation (Freezing) and Storage

Should it become necessary for the male partner to have sperm frozen and stored, this can be coordinated with the laboratory. Freezing and storage allows for the most flexibility in the schedules of both partners undergoing fertility treatment at our center.

Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) and Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE)

These are minimally invasive outpatient procedures done to obtain sperm from the epididymis or the testis. The epididymis is the structure around the testicles which serves in the maturation, storage, and transport of sperm cells. PESA and TESE are performed in patients with azoospermia (those patients who lack sperm in their ejaculates). During these procedures sperm are removed under local anesthesia from the epididymal area (PESA) or the testicle (TESE).

The sperm obtained from the procedures may be frozen for use in the future. In our program these diagnostic aspirations are coordinated with your Urologist in order to preserve and store any sperm or sperm containing tissue obtained. A list of participating physicians may be obtained through our Nurse Coordinators.