Andrology
Discovering that you need to preserve your fertility, or finding out that you have a fertility issue, can be worrying. Bourn Hall is here to help ease your anxiety. Our dedicated andrology clinic offers a number of fertility investigations, treatments and preservation methods that are designed to suit your needs. Be reassured, we will help and guide you through every step of your journey.
Starting your fertility journey
Fertility testing is a logical first step in most circumstances. This will give you all the information you need to make the best, most informed decisions about your next steps.
Our andrology diagnostic services
For men, fertility testing not only gives you answers, it also helps reassure you, gives you peace of mind and helps you decide if you want to start a family right now or preserve your fertility for the future.
- Sperm testing – A good (but not definitive) assessment of male fertility. A semen sample is collected either at home or in a private space at the clinic. The sperm is then analysed and assessed for number, movement and shape; any abnormality in one of these criteria could mean that fertility potential is reduced.
Our fertility treatment options
If you have Male Factor Infertility – the name given to a number of male fertility conditions – you will likely need fertility treatment to help you become a parent. We will help and guide you through the entire process.
Surgery is the only way to retrieve sperm when it is absent from semen. The type of sperm retrieval will depend on the reason for the sperm-free semen.
- Percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) – This method is often used if there is a tube blockage. A fine needle is inserted into the epididymis and sperm is extracted via light suction.This technique may work well following a vasectomy or unsuccessful vasectomy reversal.
- Testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) – A fine needle is inserted into the testis and a sample of sperm-containing tissue is removed. If insufficient sperm are present, the testicular sperm extraction (TESE) procedure may be needed.
- Testicular sperm extraction (TESE) – This is necessary when sperm is absent from ejaculate because of a medical or a genetic issue. A small incision is made in the scrotum and a biopsy of sperm-containing tissue is removed for analysis.
- Micro-TESE – Tissue from multiple sites in the scrotum is examined under 20x the magnification of TESE, until sperm is found or all potential sperm-containing areas have been checked and no sperm is present.
This is an option if sperm numbers are on the low side. ICSI is similar to conventional IVF, but instead of the sperm and egg being brought together in a culture dish, a single sperm is injected directly into a viable egg. Following successful fertilisation, one or two fertilised eggs – or embryos – are transferred to the woman’s uterus.
Embryologists use enhanced magnification to check for any defects or abnormalities so only the most viable sperm are used for the ICSI method of fertilisation.
This is used to check sperm quality. Simple lifestyle changes – eating healthier, reducing alcohol intake, stopping smoking and any other drug habits – could help to improve sperm quality.
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We are here to support you
At Bourn Hall your wellbeing is our priority, and this goes far beyond your fertility treatment.
We understand the frustration and distress that can sometimes be overwhelming during fertility treatment, so we encourage a holistic approach to your emotional and mental health. Engaging with our specialist advisors and counsellors is always encouraged and we run a Fertility Support Group for those who wish to share their experiences. We provide tailored nutritional support during fertility testing and we also promote a positive lifestyle approach throughout, including the benefits of being outdoors with nature.
Be reassured, we are here to help. Through all aspects of your journey, we will guide and support you, and give you all the information you need to help make your dreams come true.
Support at every stage
As one of the UK’s top fertility treatment centres, our values ensure we put our patients first.
Passion
Adaptability
Commitment
Teamwork and Collaboration
Our fertility milestones
1978
The world's first IVF baby
1980
Year founded by IVF pioneers
25000
Babies born through Bourn Hall
Upcoming fertility events
Join our experts at a range of events including support groups, webinars and open evenings.
Learn more about the options available to you, from fertility tests to treatments, and find answers to any questions you might have.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions answered. Find clarity on every step of your fertility journey.
Yes, we offer the opportunity to have a consultation with one of our Andrologists. Consultant Urologists Oliver Wiseman and Nimish Shah are two of only a small number of Urologist in the country to specialise in male fertility treatment. Our team are leading experts in male factor infertility. A full fee schedule can be found on our website.