How Can a Prior Vasectomy Procedure Be Reversed with Vasectomy Reversal?

Key Takeaways:

  1. Men who have had a vasectomy can consider a vasectomy reversal procedure to restore fertility and have a chance of fathering a child again.
  2. A successful vasectomy reversal involves making small incisions in the scrotum to reconnect the vas deferens, and success rates can be improved by entrusting the reversal to a reputable urologist.
  3. Alternative options such as IVF remain viable if the vasectomy reversal is unsuccessful or not feasible.

First Steps: Determining Your Eligibility for Reversal

You may think it is impossible to start or expand your family after a vasectomy procedure. However, there is hope through a ground-breaking medical solution known as vasectomy reversal. Reid Graves, a reputable urologist at St. Pete Urology, asserts that men who have undergone vasectomy but now wish to have children again can consider this remarkable procedure. The need for a vasectomy reversal often arises when men form new relationships with partners who desire to have children. The cut vas deferens from the prior vasectomy renders them unable to conceive, creating this necessity.

Delving into the Procedure: How Vasectomy Reversal Works

Graves explains that, to achieve a successful vasectomy reversal, small incisions are made in the scrotum. These incisions bring the isolated ends of the vas deferens back together. Using advanced medical equipment such as a microscope or robotic technology, the urologist then meticulously sutures the vas deferens. This surgical intervention restores the natural pathway for sperm to travel from the testicles to the penis. Consequently, it allows the possibility of fathering a child once more.

Considering the Odds: The Success Rates

As with any medical procedure, there are no guarantees with vasectomy reversal. However, it is worth noting that the overall success rates are promising. A key determining factor of success lies in the expertise of the urologist performing the procedure, as well as their proficiency in utilizing advanced medical technology. By entrusting your reversal to a reputable urologist, you substantially increase your chances of welcoming a new addition to your family.

Weighing Your Options: The Benefits and Alternatives to Vasectomy Reversal

Beyond the possibility of fathering a child again, it offers the added benefit of minimal invasiveness. The small incisions made during the procedure are essential to reconnecting the vas deferens while reducing the risk of complications. In the event that your vasectomy reversal is unsuccessful or not feasible, assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) remain viable alternatives for having children.

Reclaiming Your Fertility at St Pete Urology

If you find yourself contemplating the possibility of a vasectomy reversal in St. Petersburg, FL, look no further than the experienced urologists at St Pete Urology. Dr. Reid Graves and his team of specialized professionals are dedicated to providing top-tier urological care and utilizing the latest advancements in medical technology for reversing your vasectomy.

Trust the experts at St. Pete Urology. They have built their reputation on ensuring that reversing your vasectomy is as seamless and successful as possible. Partner with a team that recognizes the deep-rooted desire to create or expand your family. They are eager to make it a reality for you. Schedule a consultation with St Pete Urology in St. Petersburg, FL, today. Take the first step toward reclaiming your fertility.

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Transcription:

My name is Reid Graves and I’m a urologist at St. Pete Urology. Sometimes men who have had vasectomies will meet a new partner that desires children and one of the complexities with this is since the vas deferens has been cut with the prior vasectomy they’re unable to have children. And when the patient’s partner wants a baby the only option is to try to reconnect these tubes back together. We can do that with what’s called a vasectomy reversal. In order to do this we have to make small incisions in the scrotum, explore the scrotum and then bring the little tiny vas deferens back out together and using a microscope or even with robotic technology we’re able to sew the vas deferens back together so that the sperm can then travel from the testicle back to the penis so that the person can have a child.

What You Need to Know About Vasectomy Reversal

Key Takeaways:

  1. A vasectomy reversal is a procedure that can help restore fertility in men who have had a vasectomy.
  2. The success rate of a vasectomy reversal ranges between 40 and 80% and is contingent on many factors, including age and timing.
  3. There are options available for financing a vasectomy reversal and support groups to help answer questions and provide emotional support.

Introduction

A vasectomy reversal is a surgical procedure that reverses a vasectomy. During a vasectomy, the doctor cuts, blocks, or seals the tubes called vas deferens, thus preventing sperm from reaching semen. During the procedure, a skilled doctor reconstructs the tubes to restore the man’s fertility. Men who have had a vasectomy, but now want to become fathers can benefit from a vasectomy reversal.

What are the Pros and Cons of Vasectomy Reversal?
Vasectomy reversals offer many potential benefits, although there are also a few risks to consider.

Pros

The most obvious benefit of a vasectomy reversal is the opportunity to have children. This procedure may provide a better chance of getting pregnant than taking fertility drugs or attempting in vitro fertilization. Additionally, the procedure is typically less costly than other fertility treatments, and there is no egg retrieval, which simplifies the procedure.

Cons

The success of a vasectomy reversal procedure can vary significantly, and there is no guarantee that it will work. The procedure also involves risks such as infection, bleeding, and negative reactions to the anesthesia, none of which should be taken lightly. It is also important to keep in mind that the procedure does involve some degree of discomfort, and it is possible that a second procedure would be necessary for full reversal to occur.

The Surgery

During a vasectomy reversal procedure, the doctor first makes a small opening in the patient’s scrotum. He then reconnects the two previously cut ends of the vas deferens tubes, a process called vasovasostomy. Depending on the skill of the doctor and the condition of the tubes, he may need to construct a new vas deferens. This process is called epididymovasostomy. Then, the doctor uses sutures to secure the reconstructed tubes.

Recovery time can vary from person to person, depending on the type of procedure, with some taking as little as a few days to recover, while others may need up to six weeks for complete healing. Generally, it is best to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for several weeks after the procedure.

Risks

Like any other surgery, there are potential risks associated with a vasectomy reversal. These may include infection, negative reactions to the anesthesia, excessive bleeding, or development of a hematoma. Additionally, the procedure may not restore fertility, and a repeat surgery may be necessary.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The average cost of a vasectomy reversal is approximately $5,000, though this number may vary depending on several factors and where the procedure is performed. Fortunately, some insurance companies may cover the cost, although it is important to note that coverage depends on the specific plan. If insurance is not an option, payment plans or financial assistance options may be available.

Success Rates

The success rate of a vasectomy reversal procedure is contingent on many factors. Generally, however, the success rate typically ranges between 40 and 80%. Factors that can affect the procedure’s success are the age of the patient, the amount of time since the initial vasectomy, and the type of procedure used.

Support and Resources

It is important for those considering a vasectomy reversal to understand that it is not a decision to be taken lightly, and that there are many factors to consider before undergoing the procedure. Fortunately, there are several support groups available that provide information, advice, and emotional support. Additionally, there are numerous online resources available, such as the Vasectomy Reversal Guide, for individuals seeking more information about the procedure.

Conclusion

A vasectomy reversal is a procedure that can offer a chance at fatherhood to men who have had a vasectomy but have now changed their minds. While there are many potential benefits to having a reversal, men should weigh the risks before making a decision. Fortunately, there are several options for affording the procedure, and there are support groups available to provide information, advice, and emotional support.

At St Pete Urology, we understand that a vasectomy reversal is an important and personal decision. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and support to ensure the best possible outcome of the procedure.

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The Pros and Cons of Vasectomy

Penis enhancement surgery is a procedure to correct structural and functional problems of the penis. It may be recommended after an injury, defect, or loss of function. But usually, it is a corrective measure for a micropenis or a buried penis. Both of which cause functional issues with urinating, sexual intercourse, or hygiene.

In rare cases, the procedure may be considered for making the penis longer or larger. It may also be used to make the stomach smaller in order to allow the penis to appear longer and wider. However, surgery to increase the size or width of the penis is medically discouraged. It is a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration. 

That’s because most men who usually think they have a small penis tend to actually have a normal-sized penis. Also, most of the penis enhancement claims are false and tend to involve techniques and products that may be harmful to the penis.

Alternatives to surgery

  1. Jelqing exercises

Jelqing is a natural penis enlargement exercise involving a hand-over-hand rolling motion to increase blood flow to the head of the penis and stretch the organ. Though a fairly safe practice that can enhance the penis, it is not backed by enough medical studies. And it may lead to pain, irritation, or scar tissue formation if done too often or aggressively.

  1. Pills, potions, and lotions

While there are numerous penile enlargement vitamins, pills, herbal preparations, hormones, and lotions, most of the claims about them aren’t supported by evidence. Some may even interfere or interact with other medications or be harmful to users.

  1. Penile extenders

Penile extenders are non-invasive devices that use traction to stretch the penis. Studies have reported that extenders help to increase the length of a flaccid penis by more than 1.5 centimeters after 3 months of use. 

But more research is necessary to assess their safety and effectiveness. Plus, they are uncomfortable and cumbersome to use, and can overstretch the penis causing nerve damage, bruising, or blood clots.

  1. Vacuum pump

Though they are designed to treat erectile dysfunction, some people use them to occasionally “exercise” and stretch their penis. In the process, they can trigger tissue damage and cause erectile problems.

  1. Clamps and rings

Clamps and rings are used by some people to stretch and elongate their penis. The devices are placed around the base of an erect penis to reduce blood flow out of the penis. While wearing one of these devices may temporarily enlarge the penis, having it on for more than 30 minutes may cut off blood flow and damage penile tissues.

What are the pros and cons of penile enhancement surgery?

Typically, a urologist recommends penile enhancement surgery to correct an injury, treat a defect, or improve function of the organ. Only in very rare cases can the doctor recommend surgery to increase the length or width of the penis.  

That’s because penis enhancement surgery comes with the risk of serious complications such as scarring, pain, infection, loss of penile sensation, and erectile dysfunction. 

Pros of penis enhancement surgery

  1. Helps to correct a micropenis – defined as a very small penis. A micropenis is a condition you’re born with, but which needs correction because it causes functional problems. 
  2. Helps to correct a buried penis – defined as a penis buried under the skin from your stomach, thighs or scrotum. A buried penis can be a congenital condition or a result of aging.
  3. Helps to restore a functional penis by correction of penile abnormalities caused by injuries or disease. Penile abnormalities may make it difficult to urinate while standing up or hinder penetrative sexual intercourse.
  4. Helps to achieve a satisfactory appearance of the penis, particularly in those with persistent, bothersome, and embarrassing concerns about their penis size or width.
  5. Helps to create a new sense of masculinity and sexual potency, which in turn improves personal relationships, overall mood, and productivity in daily work.
  6. Helps to increase confidence and self-esteem by achieving a penis length and girth that meets personal goals and expectations.

Cons of penis enhancement

  1. Is associated with surgery risks such possible infection, bleeding, or damage to nerve endings.
  2. There may be adverse reactions to anesthesia.
  3. It may produce a lop-sided penis appearance, where the penis seems to hang from the scrotum instead of from the abdomen.
  4. Fat used to widen or enlarge the penis can be reabsorbed, which eventually reduces the width of the enhanced penis.

Safe, effective penis enhancement 

At St Pete Urology, we perform penis enhancement surgery on a regular basis to correct congenital and acquired micropenis. The goal of the surgery is usually to restore a functional penis size in order to achieve normal standing urination, satisfying sexual intercourse, and enhanced quality of life.  

Occasionally, we perform penis enhancement procedure on men with normal length penises, but who perceive themselves to have small ones—something that is usually a psychological condition. But for such a procedure, a lot more consultations and a multidisciplinary approach are usually necessary to come up with a highly individualized surgery that meets patient goals and expectations.

For more information on penis enhancement and other procedures for treating urologic disorders, visit the site “St Pete Urology.”

What are the Success Rates of a Vasectomy Reversal?

A vasectomy reversal is the surgical procedure to undo a vasectomy.  The operation involves reconnecting each vas deferens that was cut and sealed off during vasectomy. Once reconnected, each vas deferens becomes a channel through which sperm can again pass through from the testicle into the semen.

The reversal procedure is a more difficult and delicate procedure compared to the vasectomy. It is performed with the aid of a powerful surgical microscope that helps to magnify the vas deferens by as much as forty times in size. And most importantly, the surgery demands a high degree of skill and experience to carry out.

What is a successful vasectomy reversal?

A successful vasectomy reversal not only restores sperm in semen, but also enables a man to get his partner pregnant. Many men undergo the reversal procedure due to loss of a child, change of heart or remarriage and with their motivation being the opportunity to have more children. 

So the measure of a successful reversal is fundamentally on whether or not a man is able to make his partner pregnant. Unfortunately, this is not a straightforward measure as many factors are involved in achieving a pregnancy. 

For instance, getting a pregnancy depends on the man’s age, age of his partner, and on the health and motility of his sperm.  This means that having a vasectomy reversal after the age of 50 years when the number of healthy sperm and their motility has reduced significantly may not be successful. In contrast, having a vasectomy reversal done when a man is younger and with a younger partner may increase the chances of success of the procedure.

Success of a vasectomy reversal also depends on the type of vasectomy procedure a man had and how long it has been in place. The more time after a vasectomy, the more likely you are to develop scar tissue in the vas deferens that will make it difficult to have sperm pass through the tube and reach semen.

What are the success rates of a vasectomy reversal?

The success rates of vasectomy reversal range from 10-90 percent depending on the type of procedure, time that has elapsed since the vasectomy, age of the partner, the surgeon’s experience and training, and whether you had fertility issues before the vasectomy. 

When the reversal procedure is done soon after the vasectomy, the chances of success are quite high. In fact, if a vasectomy is reversed within 10 years after the procedure, there is more than 95-percent possibility of having sperm back in the ejaculate and over 50-percent chance of achieving pregnancy. But a reversal performed more than 15 years after the vasectomy has a lower potential of restoring sperm back in semen and as low as 30-percent rate of pregnancy.

Success rates of vasectomy are:

  1. Up to 97 percent success rate of sperm in semen and 76-percent rate of pregnancy when reversal is done within 3 years after the vasectomy.
  2. Up to 88 percent success rate of sperm in semen and 55 percent rate of pregnancy when reversal is done between 3-8 years after the vasectomy.
  3. Up to 79 percent success rate of sperm in semen and 44 percent pregnancy rate when the reversal is done 9-14 years after the vasectomy.
  4. Up to 71 percent success rate of sperm in semen and 30 percent rate of pregnancy when the reversal is done 15-19 years after the vasectomy.
  5. Up to 52-percent sperm in semen and less than 10 percent rate of pregnancy when the reversal is done after 20 years since the vasectomy.

The reversal technique used and its eventual success depend on the part where the surgeon finds sperm during the procedure. If the surgeon finds sperm within the blocked vas deferens, the vasectomy is reversed by simply reconnecting the two ends of the vas deferens back together. This is a simple procedure that offers 75-97 percent chance of restoring sperm in semen and over 50 percent chance of achieving pregnancy.

But when there is no sperm in the tubes, which is often due to a blockage nearer the testicles, the surgeon will often perform the vasoepididymostomy procedure. During vasoepididymostomy, the vas deferens is connected to the epididymis. This procedure gives a 58-85 percent success in having sperm in semen and produces an average 34 percent rate of pregnancy.

For more information on vasectomy and vasectomy reversal, visit the site “St Pete Urology.”

Can a vasectomy reverse itself after 14 years?

A vasectomy is one of the safest and most effective birth control methods. But like other medical procedures, it isn’t foolproof. 

There is a possibility that a vasectomy can fail to prevent pregnancy in extremely rare cases with roughly a 1-percent chance of failure. 

Though vasectomy failures can be due to various reasons, several cases are due to a reversal of the procedure over time. 

How can a vasectomy reverse itself?

In rare instances, a vasectomy can reverse itself and is known to occur in about 0.025 percent of cases, equivalent to 1 reversal in 4,000 vasectomies. Such a reversal involves reconnection of the vas deferens after successful surgery and an effective post-vasectomy plan.

Remember that during a vasectomy, the vas deferens—the two tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra—are cut and sealed off to block sperm from reaching semen. The channel in the vas deferens is broken at the point where it is cut to eliminate the passageway of the sperm to combine with the semen.

However, in some cases, the vas deferens grow back several years after the procedure. The growth may continue until a connection is recreated, allowing the free flow of sperm to the urethra.

An extremely rare and successful reconnection can occur after 10 to 14 years or more and is usually almost impossible to notice. 

Most men only realize that their vas deferens have reconnected after their sexual partners get pregnant.

What can make a vasectomy reverse itself?

After a vasectomy, sperm may leak from the vasectomy site or a rupture and directly into the epididymis. Since sperm have immune system stimulating properties (antigenic qualities), it recognizes sperm as foreign and attacks them.

The sperm leakage triggers an inflammatory reaction that causes the body to develop pockets to trap the sperm in scar tissues and inflamed cells. 

With time, spheres of cells called sperm granulomas form and produce nodules in the vas deferens that may grow and result in the reconnection of the vas deferens. 

The risk of a reversal increases with the presence of sperm tissue at the vasectomy site.

Another reversal mechanism is scar tissue. 

With cells present after a vasectomy forming tiny channels that allow sperm to squirm their way through the tiny tears in the scar tissue, small drainage channels appear in the tissue on the ends of the severed vas deferens. Over time, these channels may reconnect to the divided vas deferens, providing a pathway for sperm to the seminal vesicles. The risk of a reversal via scar tissue increases with open-ended vasectomy, where only one end of the vas deferens is closed.

However, you shouldn’t be overly concerned if you consider a vasectomy or have already undergone the procedure.

The chances of a reversal are pretty rare—almost negligible—and extremely unlikely in most cases. 

At St. Pete Urology, we are proud of our excellent record of successful vasectomies. Our skilled and experienced urologists understand the factors that may lead to vasectomy failure, including non-severance of the vas deferens, non-observance of a period of sperm-free ejaculate, reconnection of the vas deferens, and duplication of the vas deferens. So we tailor and conduct every vasectomy under strictest adherence to best practices. 

Call St. Pete Urology today for more information on vasectomy and vasectomy reversal.

Long Term Risks of Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a one-time male contraception procedure that provides 99.9 percent efficacy in preventing pregnancies. It offers permanent contraception and, compared to the female procedure of tubal ligation, vasectomy is:

  • Simpler.
  • More effective.
  • Safer, with fewer complications to patients.
  • Much less expensive.
  • Conveniently performed on an outpatient basis.

Following a vasectomy, you will find sex with your partner more spontaneous and enjoyable. After all, you will no longer have to worry about a potential pregnancy or need to interrupt pleasure to apply contraception.

So what are the long-term benefits and risks of a vasectomy?

Vasectomy is typically performed on younger men in their thirties and forties. These men still have many years of their lives during which long-term health effects might appear.

Luckily, medical studies have examined the long-term health impact of vasectomy and the evidence suggests there are no significant risks. In fact, men who have undergone vasectomy have basically the same risk of developing heart disease, cancer, or other health problems as those who have not.

Let us now consider the specific issues.

1. Vasectomy and testosterone levels

Vasectomy does not affect the secretion and release of testosterone—the male hormone responsible for facial hair, sex drive, deep voice and other masculine traits. Hormonal tests in those who have had a vasectomy show that there is no significant change in both free and total testosterone. Hormone levels in the body remain within normal range. There is also no significant difference in testicular or epididymal size after a vasectomy.

2. Vasectomy and sexual function

Can a vasectomy affect your sexuality negatively? Studies indicate there is no such effect. Apart from changing your fertility, a vasectomy will not influence your sexual and reproductive physiology. The nerves that are critical for erectile function and ejaculation remain intact and you will still achieve normal erections, climax and produce the same amount of ejaculate—only that your semen will not have sperm.

The procedure will not diminish your libido, which is related to various hormones in the body that are not altered by the surgery. Even your sperm production remains normal except that they are reabsorbed in the body. So the only change you are likely to have is ability to enjoy yourself without the worry of pregnancy.

3. Pain, discomfort and abscesses

The cause of post-vasectomy pain syndrome is unclear, but on rare occasions when it occurs, it can be a challenging urological problem. An estimated 1-2 percent of men experience chronic scrotal pain after a vasectomy that ranges from a dull, aching sensation to a sharp, biting pain. There is no single treatment for the pain, but your urology will tailor a solution for you should it occur, and it will rarely require further surgery to reduce or correct.

Abscesses are quite rare after a vasectomy, but they may occur. In typical cases, they result from post-operation infection at the surgical site. Fortunately, most respond to treatment with antibiotics and eventually resolve. However, when left untreated, the abscesses can fill with fluid and may need to be drained. So if you suspect you have an abscess after a vasectomy, you should see your urologist immediately to stop the condition from getting worse.

4. Epididymitis

In 1-3 percent of men who undergo vasectomy, inflammation of the epididymis may occur—a condition called epididymitis. The epididymis is a duct found behind the testicles that allows flow of sperm to the vas deferens. It is highly coiled and very narrow; since sperm still flows through the epididymis to the vas deferens after a vasectomy, the duct may get inflamed when the sperm get backed up as the vas deferens is already severed.

Inflammation of the gland is rare, but is often characterized by tenderness, pain and swelling. Some urologists recommend anti-inflammatory drugs to help with epididymitis, though the swelling should be gone within a week or so after surgery. If it gets worse after the first week, speak with your urologist about it.

5. Sperm granulomas

Cutting the vas deferens during a vasectomy ensures sperm is stopped from reaching scrotal tissues. In some cases, however, the sperm may leak through the cut vas deferens into scrotal tissues. When this occurs, the sperm may form a hard, occasionally painful lump or mass, the size of a pea, called granuloma in the scrotal tissue.

Once formed, a lump can cause small bumps or cysts, which range in size from 1 millimeter to 1 centimeter. Lumps may also produce multiple lesions that tend not to produce symptoms, though some men may experience pain at the granuloma areas. Studies estimate that 15-40 percent of men undergoing vasectomy have sperm granulomas.

While sperm granulomas are not usually dangerous and often gets absorbed by the body, some cause pain and swelling in the genital region. Actually, the entire area may become sensitive to temperature and pressure changes. Most granulomas respond to anti-inflammatory drugs and the sensitivity and swelling subsides within a week after treatment. But in some extremely rare cases, reverse vasectomy may be necessary if the leakage does not stop and the swelling becomes increasingly worse.

6. Vasovenous fistula

This is another rare risk of vasectomy. It occurs when several blood vessels adhere to the vas deferens injured when vasectomy is done. It can cause pooling of blood vessels leading to development of a fistula, or abnormal association between the vas deferens and close by blood vessels. The symptoms of vasovenous fistula may include blood in ejaculate or urine. Although the risk is quite rare, you need to seek immediate medical attention should these symptoms occur.

7. Immune based illnesses

Some men may have immune reactions to the sperm that gets absorbed in their bodies after a vasectomy. The effect is the possibility of immune reactions that may lead to heart disease and other immune-based illnesses. However, many extensive studies have concluded that a vasectomy does not lead to immune-based illnesses or heart disease later in life. In fact, studies show that the risk of immune-based illnesses is so insignificant that it should not concern either the urologist or the patient.

8. Vasectomy and cancer

One serious concern has been the possibility of a vasectomy increasing the risk of having prostate or testicular cancer. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1993 suggested that 20 years or more after a vasectomy, men who have undergone the procedure are twice as likely to develop prostate cancer compared to men of the same age group who have not undergone the procedure.

However, reviews of the study by the medical community have since demonstrated that the study did not include enough participants and the findings are therefore not statistically significant. In fact, compared to other studies that have used PSA tests to establish the possible risk of prostate cancer, the general consensus is that vasectomy comes with no increased risk of the cancer.

The risk of prostate cancer among men who have and those who have not undergone the procedure is the same when PSA tests are combined with digital rectal exam, ultrasound or prostate biopsy. Therefore, as a rule, men should undergo prostate cancer screening whether or not they have had a vasectomy. Likewise, there have been no reports of increased risk of testicular cancer after a vasectomy.

At St Pete Urology, we have offered vasectomy services for decades and we are proud of the results. The procedure has minimal long-term risks compared to other surgical procedures and provides men the freedom to enjoy sex without having to worry about a possible pregnancy. And the risk of prostate cancer, testicular cancer, heart disease, immune-based illnesses and other conditions are too insignificant to stop you from having a vasectomy.

We are ready to answer all your vasectomy related questions and concerns during your consultation. For more information, schedule a consultation or visit the St Pete Urology website.

Can a vasectomy fail?

A vasectomy is a form of male contraception that is administered through a minor surgical procedure. During a vasectomy, the patient’s vas deferens are cut and the ends are tied up or seared so they are blocked. The vas deferens is made up of two narrow tubes that transport sperm to the ejaculatory duct during ejaculation. A vasectomy inhibits the transportation of the sperm to the duct, so only seminal fluid is discharged when a man ejaculates. The absence of sperm removes the possibility of conception. A vasectomy is considered to be the most efficient form of birth control. However, there are instances, though very rare, in which pregnancy occurs even after the man has had a vasectomy.

Reasons why a vasectomy may fail

1. Recanalization

This is a medical term for when the cut vas deferens reconnect and revert to something like what they were before the vasectomy. This process happens naturally when tissue from the cut ends gradually grows until the two ends reach one another and reconnect.

Tiny channels also can form in the healing scar tissue of the snipped vas deferens and provide a passageway for sperm from one end of the vas deferens to the other.

2. Surgical error

In very rare cases, surgeons have been known to make an error during the procedure. This might mean either that the vasectomy was not done at all or that it was done in a manner that might cause it to fail.

Such errors could be:

a. Cutting one vas deferens and leaving the other;

b. The surgeon cuts completely different tubes that are not the vas deferens; and

c. In the very rare cases where the patient has duplicated vas deferens, that is to say two vas deferens on each side rather than one on each side as is the normal case, and the urologist cuts only one of the two .

d. Having intercourse too soon

Men who have had vasectomies are always advised to avoid having sex too soon, and if they do, to use another form of contraception. This is because semen does not become clear of sperm immediately after the vasectomy. The standard practice is to wait for three months after the procedure. After the three months, a urologist should conduct a semen analysis and advise accordingly.

Vasectomies are largely successful. Any man considering it has absolutely no reason to fear that it will fail because they rarely do. However, after undergoing the procedure, the patient must take care to observe all guidelines given by the urologist. A little anxiety before the procedure might be expected but the advice of a trained urologist, such as those available at St Pete Urology should dispel the worry. The team of specialists at St. Pete Urology can help with questions, consultation, surgery and follow up steps for a vasectomy. For more information, visit the St Pete Urology website.

5 Facts Men Need to Know About Vasectomy Reversal

Vasectomy is a form of male contraception. It is achieved through surgically cutting or sealing the vas deferens, which transport sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct during ejaculation. The result is that during ejaculation, the semen ejaculated does not contain sperm. Vasectomies are so efficient in preventing conception that for a long time they have been considered as a form of sterilization. The reality, however, is that with modern medicine, a vasectomy does not have to equal sterilization. It can be reversed through a procedure called a Vasectomy Reversal.

Facts about Vasectomy Reversal

A vasectomy reversal aims at rejoining the cut ends of the epididymis or unblocking them if they had been sealed. Important facts include:

1. It is a precise but outpatient procedure. A vasectomy takes about two hours. The patient can go home the same day. The fact that it is an outpatient procedure, however, should not take away from the fact that vasectomy reversal is a very precise operation that makes use of micro surgical techniques. The sutures made are extremely fine.

2. High success rate. Vasectomy reversal procedures are reported to have a success rate of over 90 percent. Even so, patients should appreciate that the rate of conception will be influenced by factors beyond themselves, such as the fertility of their partner. As such, conception may not happen immediately.

3. The procedure. A vasectomy reversal involves making two incisions on the side of the scrotum through which the vas deferens can be accessed. The surgeon then cuts open the tied or sealed ends and sutures them together.

4. Age of the vasectomy may affect success rate. Reports indicate that vasectomies done not more than ten years ago have the highest success rates. The success rate starts to decline when the vasectomy was performed more than fifteen years ago.

5. Short recovery period. Due to its relatively minor nature, a vasectomy reversal heals quickly and requires little after care. Patients, however, are advised to wait at least six weeks before they return to having sex.

The success of a vasectomy reversal requires almost pinpoint accuracy. A patient, therefore, should place a great deal of weight on the experience and training of the urological specialist or surgeon who does the procedure. St. Pete Urology has a strong track record of experienced specialists who can work with the individual in determining what is the best plan for him and answer questions or concerns. For more information, visit the St Pete Urology website.

Vasectomy Reversal – Does it REALLY work?

A vasectomy reversal is the procedure to reconnect the tubes (vas deferens) that are cut and sealed off during a vasectomy. Though still considered a permanent method of birth control, advances in microsurgery have ensured that it can be reversed even after 15 years or more. Men can choose to undergo a vasectomy reversal after a remarriage, a change of heart, loss of a child, or to treat testicular pain associated with a vasectomy. The reversal is typically an outpatient procedure performed under general or local anesthesia, taking around 3 hours and followed by a short recovery period. Nevertheless, only about 6 percent of men who undergo a vasectomy choose to have it reversed later.

Success rate of vasectomy reversal

The success rate of reconnecting the tubes severed during vasectomy is quite high, about 90 percent. After a successful reconnection of each tube, sperm is again able to pass from the testicles through the tubes and reach semen, and a man may again be able to get his partner pregnant. But the success of a vasectomy depends on a number of factors, such as the state of the tubes during the reversal and how many years have elapsed since the vasectomy was done.

If you undergo a vasectomy reversal within seven years of the vasectomy, the reversal is a simple procedure of putting the vas deferens back together. But if the tubes are too short to reconnect, if there is scarring or it’s been more than seven years since you had the vasectomy, the reversal process may be more complex. However, even with the more complex procedure, the success rate is still around 50-60 percent with no much difference in pregnancy rates — the average being 50-60 percent likelihood of pregnancy, which drops to 44 percent if time since a vasectomy is greater than 15 years.

If the time since vasectomy is less than 15 years, the reversal provides a pregnancy rate that’s higher than in vitro fertilization (IVF) and sperm aspiration with intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). And even after intervals greater than 15 years since a vasectomy, the reversal still gives outcomes equal or greater than IVF with ICSI.

Vasectomy reversal techniques

Vasectomy reversal is usually performed in two ways. The first technique is vasovasostomy (VV), which is basically the piecing back together of the two sides of the tubes (vas deferens) — that is vas deferens to vas deferens. The other technique is vasoepididymostomy (VE), which involves reconnecting the vas deferens to epididymis, the duct that transports sperm to the vas deferens. Generally vasovasostomy (VV) is done if sperm is present in the vas fluid. If sperm isn’t present in the fluid, vasoepididymostomy (VE) is the go-to procedure. In some cases, a combination of both techniques may be necessary, with a vasoepididymostomy done on one side and a vasovasostomy on the other.

A vasoepididymostomy is slightly more complicated and therefore chosen only when a vasovasostomy is impossible or can’t work. You won’t know the technique that the surgeon will use until the operation begins and that usually depends on whether sperm is present in the fluid found in the vas deferens at the time of surgery. Both are outpatient procedures that take less than 3 hours. A man has a successful vasectomy reversal if sperm evaluations performed several months later indicate he has the normal sperm count necessary for conception.

How should you prepare for a vasectomy reversal?

A vasectomy reversal is a complex and expensive procedure that’s often not covered by insurance. So you should find out what you’ll need and all the costs well ahead of time. The procedure is generally more successful when performed by surgeons who are trained and experienced in microsurgical techniques and who have done the procedure several times. So when choosing a doctor for the procedure, find out how many reversals the surgeon has performed, the techniques used, how often pregnancy has occurred after surgery, and the risks and complications involved.

Similarly, you’ll need to buy tight-fitting undergarments (like an athletic supporter) that you will wear after the procedure to hold bandages in place and support your scrotum. You also will need to stop taking medications that increase the risk of bleeding, including pain relievers (like ibuprofen or aspirin) and blood-thinning drugs. You should make arrangements for your travel to and from the hospital and for the length of time you will need to recover after surgery.

What should you know before a vasectomy reversal?

Vasectomy reversal is performed as an outpatient procedure that doesn’t require an overnight stay in a hospital. Before the procedure, the surgeon will take your medical history and conduct a physical examination to make sure you’re not having any health problems that may lead to complications after or during surgery. If your physical exam shows abnormal results or you’ve got sexual function issues, the doctor may consider running some blood tests. Likewise, a review of your surgical history is done to assess whether you had any previous surgeries other than the vasectomy or prior injuries that can hinder the vasectomy reversal. The doctor also will confirm whether you can produce healthy sperm. While evidence of fathering a child before is usually sufficient proof of the health of your sperm, additional testing may be necessary if there is uncertainty.

What happens during a vasectomy reversal?

Once you’re in the operating room, anesthesia is applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure. That may either be general anesthesia to keep you unconscious throughout the procedure or a local, spinal or epidural anesthesia to minimize pain but without putting you to sleep. The surgeon then makes a small incision on the underside of your scrotum to expose the tubes (vas deferens) and free them from surrounding tissues. Cutting open the vas deferens, the surgeon examines the fluid inside the tubes to establish whether sperm is present. If it’s found that sperm is present, the doctor simply reconnects the ends of the tubes to enable sperm passage. If the fluid inside the vas deferens is pasty, thick or contains partial or no sperm, that’s usually an indication that there’s a blockage of sperm flow and that vasovasostomy may not work. In that case, vasoepididymostomy is the more appropriate procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

After the procedure, the doctor applies bandages to cover the incisions. Make sure to ask your doctor when it will be OK to take the bandages off. The stitches applied should dissolve in 7-10 days. You will be required to wear tight-fitting undergarments (like athletic supporter) and apply ice to minimize swelling. The area may feel sore for many days, but the pain shouldn’t be severe and should improve within a few days to one week.

Once back at home, make sure to take it easy and avoid any activities that may move the testicles excessively or pull on the scrotum or testicles, such as heavy lifting, biking, jogging or sporting activities. For the next several weeks, wear an athletic supporter at all times, removing it only when showering. Avoid activities such as swimming and bathing for the first two days following surgery because they can make the surgery site wet. If your job requires much driving, walking or physical exertion, seek your doctor’s advice on when it’s safe to return to work. But for a desk job, you can return to work within a few days after surgery — only making sure that nothing harms the surgery site. Do not ejaculate or engage in sexual intercourse until your doctor gives you a go ahead — that is often 2-3 weeks after surgery.

What results should you expect?

To assess the success of a vasectomy reversal, the doctor will examine your semen 6-8 weeks after surgery. If the procedure is successful, sperm will be present in the semen. The appearance of sperm in semen should happen within a few months, but may take a year or more in some cases. So the doctor may have to conduct periodic semen analysis to evaluate the success of the procedure, unless your partner gets pregnant soon after the reversal. The prospect of achieving pregnancy usually depends on a number of factors, including the age of your female partner and the duration of time that has elapsed since the vasectomy.

Can the reversal fail to work?

If a blockage develops in the tubes after surgery or there is an underlying issue with your testicles that wasn’t recognized during surgery, a vasectomy reversal can fail to work and you may need a second-attempt reversal procedure. Doctors often opt to collect and freeze some sperm during a vasectomy reversal, which can then be used if the procedure doesn’t work. But if sperm isn’t frozen during the procedure or you completely lack sperm in your ejaculate, sperm can still be retrieved directly from your epididymis or testicle to help you have children via assisted reproductive techniques, like in vitro fertilization.

At St Pete Urology, we have a huge pool of urologists trained in andrology and experienced in microsurgical techniques. We conduct the procedure under very high-level magnification using incredibly small sutures. We perform several vasectomy reversals every year and boast significantly high success rates. So if you are looking for specially trained and skilled doctors to reverse a vasectomy in a way that will maximize your chances of having children, come and see one of our urologists. For more information on vasectomy and vasectomy reversal procedures, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

Addressing 7 Vasectomy Myths

Alright guys, it’s time now to talk about the big V! When you hear about different birth control methods, whether through word-of-mouth, billboards, newspapers, TV or radio, you seldom hear anything about vasectomy. We want to talk to you about vasectomy now, explain away the myths and fears around it and shift the birth control discourse from the most common approach of what women should do to what men can do.

So what’s a vasectomy?

It is a simple, 15-minute non-drug permanent sterilization procedure for men. It’s performed under localized anesthesia and involves sealing off or cutting a portion of the sperm-conveying tubes (called vas deferens) in order to stop sperm from reaching the ovum when ejaculation occurs. If you are a man who has had all the children you wanted to have or are sure that you will never want to have any children in the future, vasectomy is a safe and cost-effective way to sterilize yourself.

Lots of questions

Yet, if you are like most men, you have probably heard the horror stories associated with vasectomy and you are worried that things may go wrong for you. Will it reduce my sexual pleasure? Will it turn me into a “eunuch” — a sad miserable man looking back constantly to his youthful years with nostalgia? And what if disaster strikes late in my life, or my life plans change, and I decide to have children? Can I reverse it? These and many more questions can make you have doubts about having a vasectomy. But it turns out these fears are baseless myths that shouldn’t stop you from a vasectomy.

What are the most frequent myths about vasectomy?

1. It will be intolerably painful

Honestly, for most men, the idea of the whole procedure can seem quite awkward. And since most of us have the habit of protecting our testicles from any type of direct assaults, a vasectomy seems like a real intrusion into a protected zone. But the truth is doctors who conduct vasectomies have gone through many years of study and training. They know what they are doing. They use the latest minimally invasive techniques to perform the procedure, ensuring that you feel no pain. The procedure is done under local anesthetic, so you will probably only have to worry about the needle going in. After that, you will remain aware of the procedure as it goes on but you will feel no pain or uncomfortable sensations.

2. Your penis won’t work

That’s wrong, mate. In reality, the procedure isn’t done anywhere near your penis — except of course if it’s causing an obstruction and the urologist has to move it out of the way. The snip is entirely about your balls and affects only those little tubes inside your balls that are called the vas deferens. Remember too that when you have sex and reach orgasm, the fluid that comes out, called ejaculate, is 97 percent semen and only 3 percent sperm. After vasectomy, you will still achieve orgasm and produce this ejaculate, except it won’t contain sperm and you won’t be able make your partner pregnant. That means your erections will remain exactly the same and your penis will stay as sensitive during sex as it was before the vasectomy. Likewise, your ability to enjoy sex and achieve orgasm will remain unchanged, though now you’ll be able to do so without having to worry about making anyone pregnant.

3. You will no longer ejaculate

That’s wrong, too. If you ejaculated before the snip, you’ll continue to do so after. Semen, the main component of ejaculatory fluid, is produced in the seminal vesicles and the prostate, which aren’t cut or blocked off during a vasectomy. And since only a small portion of fluid comes from the testicles with sperm, the overall volume of your ejaculate will reduce only slightly after a vasectomy — you won’t even notice it. Likewise, because the muscle contractions that propel fluid out during ejaculation typically come from the pelvis, your ejaculations won’t be affected by a vasectomy.

4. Your sperm production will shut down

Not true. Vasectomy doesn’t block sperm production and you’ll continue to make sperm after the snip. The only difference is that sperm will no longer reach semen and form part of the ejaculate. Because the sperm will go nowhere after a vasectomy, it will live for 3-5 days and decay naturally in the body. This is the same thing that happens naturally in men if they don’t ejaculate every 5 days or so. They produce sperm continuously but the sperm goes nowhere and is reabsorbed naturally in the body.

5. You can’t reverse it once it’s done

No, you can if you want. Vasectomy can be reversed through a surgical procedure called vasovasostomy (vasectomy reversal). During the procedure, the vas deferens (tubes) are reconnected, with each tube re-joined as it was before the snip in order to create a passageway for sperm, allowing sperm to again be present in semen. A successful reversal procedure restores your fertility and you can again make your partner pregnant. But when considering a vasectomy reversal, you need to consult an experienced urologist. That will ensure that no tissues are irreparably damaged during the reversal procedure.

6. Even if it’s reversed, you’ll remain impotent

Not really. With microsurgical advances currently used in vasectomy and vasovasostomy, the reversal has become more precise and more successful. So while vasectomy reversal is still technically expensive and demanding, doctors can now successfully restore a man to his pre-vasectomy condition. Although many men think that vasectomy can make them impotent, they should know that the procedure has no effect on blood flow to the spongy veins of the penis. These veins cause an erection. A vasectomy tends to make love-making more pleasurable and fun through the exhilarating feeling accompanying the ejaculation of spermless semen and also by erasing the fear of pregnancy.

7. It’s harder than a woman getting her tubes tied

A nice try indeed, but still wrong. Tubal ligation is performed under epidural or general anesthesia and typically takes longer than the 10-20 minutes required for a vasectomy. Tying a woman’s tubes also comes with a much more serious complication rate than a vasectomy. So why not just take the simpler route to contraception and block the source of sperm in order to remove the burden of birth control from women instead of looking for excuses to pressure women with contraception? After all, vasectomy is more effective than tubal ligation, costs much less and guarantees better results. In fact, for partners and couples considering family planning, vasectomy is a great cost-saving and effective solution to consider.

What if you are just one of those men who want to have multiple sexual partners without any additional responsibilities? Well, vasectomy works for that too. If you get a vasectomy, you can enjoy your lifestyle without having to worry about the possibility of fatherhood.

Want to know more about vasectomy? Speak with your partner and assess whether you have had all the children you want. Once you are sure of your decision, visit your doctor to discuss this birth control method. For more information on vasectomy and vasectomy reversal, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.