Let’s be real—dealing with infertility can be emotionally exhausting. And when it’s related to male infertility, it can feel even more confusing. Sometimes, everything seems normal on the outside, but there’s no sperm in the semen. That’s where a procedure like PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) comes in and changes the game.
It’s a small, simple, and smart medical technique that helps retrieve sperm directly from the body. And for many couples trying to have a baby, this tiny procedure becomes a big ray of hope.
Now, if you’re thinking about getting fertility treatment in Kathmandu, you’re probably wondering: How much does PESA cost? Is it safe? Will it work for us? Don’t worry—I’ll walk you through it in the simplest way possible, like a friend chatting with you over a cup of tea. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of PESA, how it works, its PESA cost in Kathmandu, and if it’s the right step forward.

What is PESA?
Alright, let’s start from the top.
PESA is a medical method used to collect sperm directly from the epididymis—a small tube behind the testicles where sperm is stored. Some men produce sperm normally, but it doesn’t show up in their semen because of a blockage or missing sperm ducts. That’s when PESA comes in handy.
You can think of it like this: sperm is being made properly, but it’s stuck behind a roadblock. So, instead of waiting, doctors take a shortcut and collect it from where it’s being stored.
This method is mostly used in cases of obstructive azoospermia—a condition where sperm is there but can’t come out naturally. It’s also useful for men who’ve had a vasectomy but now want to have children again.
How is PESA Done?
Honestly, the procedure sounds more complicated than it actually is. Here’s how it works:
- Local Anesthesia – First, the doctor numbs the scrotal area so you don’t feel any pain.
- Needle Insertion – A very fine needle is gently inserted through the skin into the epididymis.
- Sperm Aspiration – A small amount of fluid is drawn out. This fluid contains sperm.
- Lab Check – The fluid is checked under a microscope for healthy, active sperm, which can then be used in fertility treatments like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).
And that’s it! No cuts, no stitches, no hospital admission. Most men are in and out of the clinic within an hour, and there’s minimal discomfort.
Who Might Need PESA?
PESA isn’t for everyone, but it’s a perfect fit in certain situations. Your doctor might recommend it if:
- You have obstructive azoospermia (sperm is produced but blocked)
- You were born without the vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm)
- You’ve had a vasectomy and now want children
- You have ejaculation problems, preventing sperm release
- You and your partner are planning IVF with ICSI, and sperm can’t be retrieved naturally
Before suggesting PESA, your doctor will likely do a semen analysis, scrotal ultrasound, and maybe some hormone tests to figure out what’s going on.

What is the Success Rate of PESA?
Here’s the good news—PESA has a high success rate when the problem is due to blockage and not sperm production.
- Sperm retrieval success rate: 90–100%
- Fertilization success with ICSI: 60–75%
Live birth rate (with IVF/ICSI): 35–50% per cycle (depends on female partner’s age and egg quality)
If PESA fails (very rare), doctors may go for TESA or TESE as a backup.
Is PESA Safe? Are There Any Side Effects?
Yes, PESA is safe, especially when done by an experienced doctor. Since it’s a needle-based procedure, there are no major risks. Some common and temporary side effects include:
- Mild discomfort or pain
- Swelling in the scrotal area
- Bruising
- Temporary redness
These usually go away within 24–48 hours. You can go back to work the next day. Painkillers and ice packs are enough to manage symptoms.
Can Sperm from PESA Be Frozen?
Yes! If the sperm retrieved during PESA is healthy, it can be frozen and stored for future IVF or ICSI cycles.
This is helpful because:
- You don’t need to repeat the procedure again
- It saves money in the long run
- Frozen sperm can be used for multiple cycles
The cost of sperm freezing in Kathmandu ranges between NPR 10,000 to NPR 25,000 per year, depending on the clinic.
Recovery After PESA
PESA doesn’t need hospital admission. Here’s how the recovery typically goes:
Day 1–2:
- Rest at home
- Use cold packs to reduce swelling
- Take pain relief if needed
Day 3–4:
- Resume light work
- Avoid exercise, heavy lifting, or sex
Day 5–7:
- Back to normal activities
- Wear loose underwear and avoid tight jeans
If you feel feverish, experience excessive swelling, or any unusual symptoms—call your doctor.

Should You Be Worried About PESA?
Not really. It’s okay to feel nervous before any procedure, but the truth is, PESA is a simple, low-risk procedure that has helped thousands of couples become parents.
You are not alone. Many couples go through this. Male infertility is not something to feel ashamed of—it’s a medical condition, just like any other. The best thing you can do is be open, ask your doctor all your doubts, and support each other through this journey.
Emotional Support Matters
Going through fertility treatment is not just physical—it’s emotional too. Many couples feel:
- Stressed
- Tired
- Anxious
- Alone
It’s normal. The best way to get through it is to:
- Talk to each other openly
- Take breaks when needed
- Join support groups (online or local)
- Seek counseling if things feel overwhelming
Remember, no matter how hard it seems, there’s always hope.
Why choose the Nepal IVF Centre?
A compassionate service provider like Nepal IVF Centre is an expert in the field of parenthood and supports patients in making their parents’ dreams come true. We, at Kathmandu IVF Centre, have in place a fully experienced team that works round the clock to custom-create specialized IVF treatment strategies for all patients. We guarantee attentive and sophisticated care to all patients while using specialized technology to maximize success rates.
Our understanding of the IVF emotional journey enables us to actively support you throughout the process. Furthermore, my treatment options include very affordable and quality value statements, making IVF available to more families. Lastly, in our firm belief, the combination of success and comfort along with a welcoming environment makes us the best choice for people planning to start or grow a family.

Conclusion
Choosing to go through a fertility journey isn’t easy, and when male infertility is part of the story, it can feel even more overwhelming. But the good news is—you’re not alone, and medical options like PESA are here to help.
This simple, low-risk procedure has helped countless couples take one step closer to their dream of becoming parents. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or already planning IVF, PESA could be the key if sperm isn’t present in the semen due to a blockage or other issue.
In a city like Kathmandu, where fertility care is improving every day, PESA is not only accessible but also affordable. Just make sure to ask your clinic the right questions, understand what’s included in the treatment, and go with a team that makes you feel comfortable and informed.
Remember—this is your journey, and every step forward counts. With the right care and information, your path to parenthood is absolutely possible.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the cost of PESA in Kathmandu?
The cost ranges from NPR 20,000 to NPR 50,000, depending on the clinic and additional services.
Is PESA painful?
No, PESA is done under local anesthesia, so there is little to no pain during the procedure.
How long does PESA take?
The entire procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and you can go home the same day.
Can sperm from PESA be frozen for future use?
Yes, sperm can be frozen and stored for future IVF or ICSI cycles.
What is the success rate of PESA?
The sperm retrieval success rate is up to 100% in obstructive azoospermia cases.
Is PESA done alone or with IVF?
PESA is usually performed in combination with ICSI, as the sperm retrieved isn’t strong enough for natural fertilisation.