The first reported pregnancy in Ireland using an advanced sperm retrieval technique has been confirmed by the Cork Fertility Centre.

Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction, known as Micro-TESE, offers hope to men with sperm-related fertility issues. The procedure was carried out on a patient from Cork before the man's partner underwent IVF treatment.

The patient required Micro-TESE because he had previously had testicular surgery which had affected his production of sperm.

The procedure was performed by Cork Fertility Centre's consultant urologist, Dr Ivor Cullen, who is one of only a few urologists in Ireland qualified to carry out this specialised surgery.

"This is a landmark pregnancy and very positive news regarding the treatment of male infertility and in particular azoospermia. Azoospermia is a condition where no sperm cells are found in a semen sample, perhaps as a result of a hormone imbalance or other medical problem. It offers renewed hope to these men, and to men who have been diagnosed with defective sperm production, or had previous unsuccessful conventional sperm retrieval procedures," Dr Cullen explained.

The procedure involves a targeted dissection of tiny tubes within the testicle which are more likely to contain sperm. Healthy tissue is distinguished from unhealthy tissue using a high powered microscope.

Healthy tissue samples are then examined in the laboratory. If viable sperm are discovered, they are prepared and then frozen for use in an IVF cycle.

Cork Fertility Centre has been carrying out in-house testicular biopsies, known as TESE, for men with azoopermia for more than a decade, achieving the first birth via this technique back in 2004. TESE benefits men whose main problem is duct blockage.

However, Micro-TESE is a more advanced procedure aimed at helping men whose main problem is a failure to produce sperm cells.

The centre said that it is ‘delighted for the couple involved' and extended its congratulations.