Had a traditional vasectomy 12yrs ago and got worried about recanalization. I've had two negative at-home sperm tests. Am I still sterile?

Had a traditional vasectomy 12yrs ago and got worried about recanalization. I've had two negative at-home sperm tests. Is it safe to say I'm still sterile?

Answers from doctors (4)


More About Doctor Yasmin Bootwala M.D.

Published on Jan 18, 2022

The incidence of recanalization if very low at 1 out of 1000 to 1 out of 2000. You can discuss with doctor your concerns but if no unexpected pregnancies and negative home testing, you are probably still sterile.

Answered by Yasmin Bootwala M.D. (View Profile)

The incidence of recanalization if very low at 1 out of 1000 to 1 out of 2000. You can discuss with doctor your concerns but if no unexpected pregnancies and negative home testing, you are probably still sterile.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Answered by Mark J. Saslawsky, MD - Memphis Office (View Profile)

Yes

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor John C. McHugh, MD

Published on Nov 29, 2018

The home test kits are reliable; however, there is a degree to which a patient and the doctor "want to be sure". For this, a lab-tested semen analysis will be done. The urologist who did your vasectomy will oftentimes perform a "post-vasectomy" semen analysis for free. Having said that, if you are comfortable with any disclaimers that came with your kit, you may not feel that additional confirmation is necessary.

Answered by John C. McHugh, MD (View Profile)

The home test kits are reliable; however, there is a degree to which a patient and the doctor "want to be sure". For this, a lab-tested semen analysis will be done. The urologist who did your vasectomy will oftentimes perform a "post-vasectomy" semen analysis for free. Having said that, if you are comfortable with any disclaimers that came with your kit, you may not feel that additional confirmation is necessary.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Naresh Parajuli, MBBS, FRACGP

Published on Nov 14, 2018

Two negative sperm tests and vasectomy done 12 years back (more or less) confirms that your vasectomy was successful and you are sterile now. However, for peace of mind, if you do a laboratory test instead of at home test, that will confirm that you are sterile.

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Answered by Naresh Parajuli, MBBS, FRACGP

Two negative sperm tests and vasectomy done 12 years back (more or less) confirms that your vasectomy was successful and you are sterile now. However, for peace of mind, if you do a laboratory test instead of at home test, that will confirm that you are sterile.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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