Life often throws us curveballs, causing us to rethink or pivot. Some men who have undergone a vasectomy decide they instead wish to grow their families or begin a new one. In these cases, vasectomy reversal is the recommended solution.
Vasectomy reversal is a surgical procedure that reverses the effects of a vasectomy, even if the original procedure was many years ago. After a successful vasectomy reversal, men are once again able to get their partners pregnant. Still, some men are skeptical and wonder what the vasectomy reversal success rate is. Here, Richmond University Medical Center’s urology team discusses the effectiveness of vasectomy reversals and what you need to know.
What Is a Vasectomy Reversal?
If men decide they no longer wish to have children, they can choose to have a vasectomy performed. During this procedure, a surgeon makes a small incision into the man’s scrotum and severs the tubes that carry sperm cells to the semen, otherwise known as the vas deferens. Once cut, the two ends get cauterized and stitched. The purpose of this procedure is to block the pathway of sperm, preventing the person from reproducing.
During a reversal procedure, a surgeon reconnects the two ends of the vas deferens by sewing them back together. This allows sperm cells to enter semen, making pregnancy possible once again. In some cases, surgeons may need to utilize other means of reattachment if no sperm is present, such as sewing the vas deferens to the epididymis (a duct behind the testicles that carries sperm). In most cases, surgery is completed within three to four hours and is an outpatient procedure.
Why Have a Vasectomy Reversal Procedure?
Reasons for undergoing a vasectomy reversal to undo the effects of a vasectomy vary and are unique to each individual. Some of the most common reasons why men choose a reversal procedure include:
Change of Heart
Many men come to the realization later in life that they wish to produce more offspring after an initial decision to have a vasectomy. Vasectomy reversal is a safe option for men who have changed their minds and now wish to have children for the first time or have more.
Pain Relief
For a small number of men, the original vasectomy procedure can cause pain in the testicles. While the procedure is deemed successful, this pain can be difficult to manage. In these extreme cases, vasectomy reversal is the best solution to alleviate the pain.
Restore Fertility
Opting for a vasectomy reversal does not mean men must produce children. Even if a man does not plan on producing children, they may feel more comfortable knowing they still have the option. This can be especially true for men who remarry after a divorce or the loss of their spouse and wish to start a new family.
How Successful Is Vasectomy Reversal?
Vasectomy success rates depend on several factors, including how much time has passed since the vasectomy occurred. Typically, success rates for sperm returning to semen after a reversal procedure range from 60% to 95%.
Pregnancy rates after a vasectomy reversal vary, too. Generally, pregnancy is possible in 50% of cases after the reversal procedure. However, success rates dramatically decrease when a reversal takes place 15 years after the original vasectomy.
It is important to remember that a variety of other factors play a role in pregnancy that may not involve the reversal procedure. The age of your partner and the health of the sperm are crucial components of pregnancy.
Can a Vasectomy Reversal Fail?
In some cases, the reversal procedure can be unsuccessful. This can be due to an underlying issue with the testicles that may not have been spotted previously. Vasectomy reversal can also fail because of a blockage that can sometimes develop after the surgery.
If a vasectomy reversal fails, men can decide to undergo the procedure again. However, success rates are lower during a second attempt than for the initial reversal procedure.
Learn More at Richmond University Medical Center
Male patients in Staten Island, New York interested in learning more about vasectomies, vasectomy reversals, or other conditions and treatments related to the male reproductive system can consult the dedicated team at Richmond University Medical Center. To address these concerns, we use expert knowledge and advanced technology to provide patients with comprehensive care.
Our tailored approach ensures every patient receives personalized care and that their medical needs are met. To account for the sensitive nature of these types of conditions, Richmond University Medical Center offers counseling services and support in addition to innovative treatments. Contact us today to learn more about vasectomy reversals and other services we offer or schedule an appointment.
