Men typically choose to undergo a vasectomy once they are sure they are done expanding their family and do not desire to have any more children. But what if circumstances change and you find yourself in the position to grow your family again after you’ve already had the procedure?
The good news is a vasectomy reversal is possible. It can be performed to reverse the original surgery and restore your fertility so that you will have the chance to conceive with your partner again.
What is a Vasectomy Reversal?
During a vasectomy, the vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm from the testicles to the urethra, is cut. In order to restore fertility, the vas deferens must be reconnected. The vas deferens are reconnected during a surgical procedure performed by a urologist.
Vasectomy reversal is possible with one of two different procedures: a vasovasostomy or a vasoepididymostomy. During a vasovasostomy, the cut ends of the vas deferens are stitched back together, while during a vasoepidymostomy, a bypass is created around the blocked vas deferens to reconnect it correctly.
Vasectomy Reversal Success Rates
Although fertility restoration is possible, vasectomy reversal success rates vary. It can depend on many different factors, such as how long it has been since the original vasectomy. The sooner your vasectomy is reversed, the higher the success rate, but on average, success rates range from 40-90%.
Generally speaking, the best chance of success is if your vasectomy was performed less than eight years ago. Men who have had their vasectomy done less than three years prior have about a 97% chance of sperm returning to their ejaculate.
Additionally, since this is a specialized surgery, a urologist experienced in vasectomy reversals and microsurgeries can enhance the chances of success.
How Long Does A Vasectomy Reversal Procedure Take?
A vasectomy reversal procedure usually takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the difficulty of the procedure. The procedure is generally done under general anesthesia, using specialized microsurgery equipment to reconnect the vas deferens. Once you have recovered from anesthesia, you can go home to rest and recover.
How Long After a Vasectomy Reversal Do You Have to Wait to Try To Conceive?
After your vasectomy reversal, you can expect some bruising, swelling, and minor discomfort in your groin and genitals, so sexual activity should be avoided until healing is complete. Most men recover from their procedure within 4-6 weeks, and sexual activity can resume after that. It may take up to 6 weeks for the swelling in the vas deferens to decrease enough to allow sperm to travel out through the urethra with ejaculation. Conception may take time and depends on several other factors, including your partner’s age and health conditions, so it is always important to speak with your doctor about your plans to conceive as a couple. A successful vasectomy reversal does not always guarantee conception will occur.
When to Speak To Your Doctor about Vasectomy Reversal Success Rates.
Just like with anything in life, timing is everything. Vasectomy reversal success rates are typically higher when done sooner rather than later after the original vasectomy.
So, if you are considering reversing your vasectomy, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with an experienced urologist today to learn more about your vasectomy reversal options!