The decision to reverse a vasectomy should be considered fully and carefully. It may be time to add to your family, but having the right reasons, and reasonable expectations, is very important.
Things change. Maybe it's time to change things.
When your family goals or personal circumstances change after a vasectomy, you should know that 'permanent' sterility may not have to stay that way. You and your spouse still have options. But is vasectomy reversal appropriate or successful for every man or every couple?
First, you should know that you are not alone. Vasectomy reversal is not an uncommon choice for men, usually within an age range of late 20's to late 30's. Approximately five percent of the half million men who opt for a vasectomy each year later elect to have the procedure reversed.
Typically, something has changed in the lives or lifestyle of these men - such as remarriage after a divorce, or maybe simply a change of mind. Regardless of the reason, having a reversal is a major decision. Here are some general ground rules to consider first, as well as emotional and family concerns to discuss with your partner and physician.
This is an important decision not to be made lightly or alone.
Couples should first become fully informed about vasectomy reversal procedures, what kind of expectations they may have and what results are possible. As couples and as individuals, families should discuss their feelings and thoughts about this option.
While a vasectomy can sometimes be reversed, you should consider that-due to many factors-it might not be possible for you. You will want to be certain that you want to father another child and that your family accepts the economic responsibility, before having your vasectomy reversed.
Who shouldn't have a vasectomy reversal?
Are there some men who should NOT have a vasectomy reversal? Frankly, yes. You may be at the time of life when you are satisfied with the size of your family, or childlessness, but have a partner who is ready to have children. If you feel you are being 'forced' into a vasectomy reversal, then the decision may not be for the right reasons.
Also, the decision to have a vasectomy reversal should not be made based strictly on financial considerations. Before deciding to start a second family or add to the existing nest means you may want to consider your age, your health, your financial standing and your ability to offer another child appropriate and adequate parenting over a long period in the future.
Generally, there is no minimum or maximum age requirement except that you must be an adult. Usually couples who opt for reversal have come to regret a permanent birth control decision made too early in their lives. Reversals are often sought by men who had their vasectomies under the age of 25… or those who divorce young and remarry…or those who have the procedure immediately after the birth of a child, but then want more children.
What about emotional considerations?
A successful vasectomy reversal may produce a child, but it will not save a troubled or 'empty' marriage, or 'fulfill' an unhappy life. Experience suggests that you should not get a vasectomy reversal to please someone else.
If you have concerns about the stability of your current relationship, or your decision-or ability-to father another child, a vasectomy reversal may not be right for you or your partner at this time.
There are many good reasons to have more children, but they are often difficult to put into words. That's because bringing a child into the world is an emotional, rather than strictly intellectual decision. But it should be a well-considered and informed choice for both than man and woman as a couple, and the family as a whole.
Who are the best candidates for vasectomy reversal?
Because this is a personal decision, there are no absolute rules, and the best answer lies in being informed. Rates of success depend on a range of criteria, so determining the best candidate is easier than determining the right candidate.
The most common microsurgical procedure, vasovasostomy, has statistically greater chance of success than the more complex vasoepididymostomy. In many instances, this is because live sperm are found present in the seminal fluid within the vas prior to a vasaovasostomy reversal. If not, the alternative procedure to bypass an obstruction connects the vas deferens futher upstream to the epididymis. This procedure can be more challenging and complicated to perform and has a statistically lower success rate.
The best candidate for vasectomy reversal is a man who knows that the chances of successfully impregnating his partner have more to do with time and the quality of his restored sperm count. Any vasectomy reversal procedure has a greater chance of success when there has been a shorter the time interval since the person's vasectomy. The patency (quality of the surgical reconnection) and potency (number and quality of sperm produced) determine your best chances for a successful insemination and pregnancy.
However, here are some suggestions to consider as to whom is a good candidate:
- Men and their partners, who are seriously committed to having more children now, and being able to care for them later in life.
- Men, who experienced uncomplicated vasectomy and who, upon examination, are found to be likely to achieve a successful vasectomy reversal and subsequent pregnancy. Favorable findings in the genital examination include testicles of normal size and consistency, no swelling of the epididymis, a modest or minimal gap in the vas deferens at the site of the vasectomy, a long segment of vas deferens on the testicle side of the vasectomy scar and the presence of a sperm granuloma.
- Families and couples with reasonable expectations of the procedures involved, who are fully informed on the surgical options available, and who are aware of both the pros and cons of restoring fertility.
- Men who do not feel 'forced' into this decision by others or financial circumstances.
- Before making any decision, discuss these and all related issues with your spouse, and seek the advice of your physician.
In Summary:
- Be informed and discuss all your options with your spouse and your physician.
- Some men or couples may not be well suited or economically prepared for a vasectomy reversal or second family, particularly if either partner is over the age of 40 or in poor health.
- Short-term, temporary or changing circumstances may not be good reasons to consider an expensive and complex procedure such as a vasectomy reversal.
- A vasectomy can be reversed and pregnancy can be achieved in many instances.
Check out related pages from vasectomy.com…
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