In vitro fertilization improves pregnancy rates for sperm obtained by rectal probe ejaculation.

Abstract

We evaluated semen quality and pregnancy rates achieved with sperm obtained by rectal probe ejaculation. A series of 183 rectal probe ejaculation procedures performed by 1 of us (J. F. E.) on 40 anejaculatory men was reviewed. Motile sperm were recovered from 95% of men undergoing rectal probe ejaculation. Live births were recorded for 15 of 33 couples (45%) via intrauterine insemination (10) or in vitro fertilization (5). Three of the latter 5 pregnancies were achieved with intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Motile sperm are obtained from most men undergoing rectal probe ejaculation and pregnancy rates obtained with these sperm are improved by in vitro fertilization.