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Vasectomy reversal Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, November 2008.

Answers to questions about vasectomy reversal

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

Will a vasectomy reversal operation affect my ability to have an erection?

Vasectomy reversal will not affect your ability to have an erection or your sex drive.

Explanation

Vasectomy reversal is an operation to reconnect or unblock the vas deferens so that the tubes can carry the sperm from your testicles to your penis.

The procedure involves making cuts into your scrotum, usually in the same position as your vasectomy scars. After the operation you will have some swelling and pain in your scrotum. It's best to wait until you are fully recovered from the operation before having sex.

Speak to your doctor if you are having problems achieving or sustaining an erection. Feeling anxious about your fertility status or psychological pressure of trying for a baby can influence your ability to get and keep erections.

If the cause is mainly because you are anxious, then talking to a counsellor will probably be most helpful for you. You may also find this useful if you think you have other psychological problems such as depression. Your GP will be able to recommend or refer you to a reputable counsellor.

Further information

Sources

  • Silber SJ, Grotjan HE. Microscopic vasectomy reversal 30 years later: A summary of 4010 cases by the same surgeon. J Andrology 2004;25:845-859
  • Impotence or erectile dysfunction. Sexual Dysfunction Association. www.sda.uk.net, accessed 4 December 2007
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What happens if my vasectomy reversal is not successful?

You will not know whether you are producing sperm when you ejaculate until your doctor has checked a sample of semen. This is usually done around three months after surgery.

Explanation

It can take up to 12 months for sperm to re-appear, so if the test shows no sperm at three months your doctor will suggest a repeat test at six months and every couple of months thereafter. If sperm haven't reappeared by 12 months your doctor may suggest you have a repeat vasectomy reversal, but it's less likely to be successful than a first reversal attempt. Alternatively your doctor may suggest you and your partner consider having IVF (in vitro fertilisation) treatment using ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection).

ICSI is a treatment option for men when vasectomy reversal has failed. In this treatment, sperm is removed directly from your testicle and injected into the egg. If you are considering fathering a child using ICSI your partner will need IVF treatment. The egg is collected from her ovary, fertilised, and the resulting embryo is placed in the womb approximately 48 hours later.

If you are thinking of having IVF treatment, it is vital that you understand exactly the treatment choices, what they involve and your chances of success.

Further information

Sources

  • Silber SJ, Grotjan HE. Microscopic vasectomy reversal 30 years later: A summary of 4010 cases by the same surgeon. J Andrology 2004;25:845-859
  • What is ICSI? Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. www.hfea.gov.uk, accessed 4 December 2007
  • Fertility treatments explained. Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. www.hfea.gov.uk, accessed 4 December 2007
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What can I do to produce healthy sperm?

Alcohol and smoking can damage sperm. To help improve the health of your sperm you shouldn't drink more than the recommended daily maximum amount and if you smoke, quit smoking. A healthy diet and regular exercise will also help improve your fertility.

Explanation

The quality of sperm doesn't just depend on the count, but also on how healthy they are and how fast they can move.

Men who smoke have a lower sperm count and more damaged sperm. Drinking too much alcohol affects hormone levels and interferes with sperm production and sperm movement. Various medicines such as those used to treat heart disease or high blood pressure can also damage sperm.

Creating a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet and having regular exercise will improve your health and fertility. Sperm develop best at lower temperature than the rest of the body, which is why the testes are outside of the body. Wearing looser underwear, such as boxer shorts, or loose-fitting trousers can help.

Have a chat with your doctor if you are concerned about your fertility.

Further information

Sources

  • Smoking, sex and reproduction 07. Action on Smoking and Health (ASH). www.ash.org.uk, accessed 4 October 2007
  • Wardle P, Cahill D. Understanding infertility. The British Medical Association. Family Doctor Publications. 2002
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Related topics

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by consultant urologist Raj Persad, MB BS, chM, FRCS (Urol), FEBU at United Bristol Health Care Trust, and by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: November 2008

 

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