Facts Women Want to Know About Vasectomy Reversals

Men are the ones who have vasectomies and vasectomy reversals, but the decision to undergo these procedures is usually made by a man and woman together. Interestingly, when men are considering having a vasectomy reversed, it’s often the women who have the most questions about the procedure. To address these concerns, we’ve compiled a list of questions women typically ask about vasectomy reversals, along with the answers to these questions.  

• What’s involved in a vasectomy reversal? A microsurgical procedure, a vasectomy reversal is intended to reattach the vans deferens, allowing it to transport sperm from the testicles to the penis. This is done in one of two ways: 
• If there’s sperm in the vas deferens, a vasovasostomy is used to reconnect the two cut ends of the vas deferens.  
• The other option is an epididymovasostomy, in which the surgeon sutures the ends of the vas deferens to the epididymis, bypassing a blockage on the vasectomy site.  
• Is it dangerous? The risks and complications of a vasectomy reversal are similar to those posed by a vasectomy. These include pain and swelling during the first few days, and a slight risk of infection, which can be treated with an antibiotic. Sometimes, men experience issues like nausea, headache, constipation, or muscle aches, and there’s a possibility that blood will accumulate in the scrotum as a hematoma. If that happens, the doctor can drain the hematoma.  
• How long does the procedure take? It depends on what type of surgery is needed. A vasovasostomy takes between two and five hours, but an epididymovasostomy takes an hour or two longer.  
• Does a vasectomy reversal affect libido? No! None of the structures that are involved in arousal or getting and maintaining an erection are impacted by vasectomy reversal. Therefore, just as with a vasectomy, a vasectomy reversal does not have an effect on the sex drive.  
• How long is the recovery time after a vasectomy reversal? A vasectomy reversal is typically performed in an outpatient or office setting, and men can go home after a short while, as long as they feel well enough to travel. For at least the first 24 hours, bed rest will be required. After that, it’s important to restrict activities for about four or five days. For the first three to four weeks, all heavy lifting and physical exertion should be avoided. To alleviate discomfort in the first 48 hours or so, an ice pack can be used to minimize swelling, and pain relievers can relieve discomfort. Sexual activity should be avoided for about 30 days.  
• What’s the success rate of vasectomy reversals? Overall, the success rate for a vasectomy reversal within ten years of the vasectomy can reach 97 percent, and after 15 years it drops to about 70 percent. The type of surgery affects the success rate, with epididymovasostomy at a lower rate of about 50-60 percent.  
• How long does it take for fertility to return after a vasectomy is reversed? Usually, it takes several months for fertility to return, and sometimes it can take up to a year. Once fertility is restored, a vasectomy reversal results in pregnancy in 40 to 75 percent of cases.  
• If the procedure doesn’t work, what are some other options? The good news is that there are several options available. If it’s not successful, you can always try a repeat vasectomy. Another possibility is to use Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), which includes approaches like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). 
• How can I choose the best doctor for vasectomy reversal? Ask your family doctor or urologist for referrals, or search the internet for qualified vasectomy reversal microsurgeons. Once you have compiled a list of possible surgeons, check their websites and arrange for consultations with the most promising. Ask questions about the doctor’s educational background and whether he or she completed a specialized fellowship, as well as questions about the doctor’s success rate and how many vasectomies have been performed. Ask for credentials and recommendations, compiling your list of questions before you go. 

If you’re considering a vasectomy reversal in Tampa or Orlando, the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is here to help. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our caring and skilled team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need reversal of their vasectomy or have other concerns about their fertility. Whether you’re ready to schedule a procedure or just have questions and want to learn more, you can contact us through our website, or call 941-894-6428 to arrange a free consultation.