Yes. There are three ways that sperm can be collected so that couples can conceive:
- Penile vibratory stimulation (PVS). This method involves applying a penile vibrator to the tip of the penis. The vibrations move from the sensory nerves to the spinal cord, triggering ejaculation. This method works for about 60% of men, but men with spinal cord injury may not have as much success. PVS can be administered either in the doctor’s office or at home.
- Electroejaculation. This procedure, usually performed under general anesthesia, involves electrically stimulating ejaculatory nerves near the prostate with a tool inserted through the rectum. The stimulation is gradually increased until the man ejaculates.
- Extracting sperm from the testicles. In some cases, sperm can be removed from the testicles for in vitro fertilization use.