I am 57 and in pretty good health, my wife is 47. I had a vasectomy 21-years ago. Any reversal advice?

My wife has very regular periods. I have 3-children and I don't want to disappoint wife, but I'm not overjoyed by her wishes.

Answers from doctors (4)


Robert D. Oates, MD, FACS

Published on Aug 14, 2019

Unfortunately, her chances of pregnancy at age 47 (even though she is still having periods) is extremely limited. My advice is for the two of you to visit a Reproductive Endocrinologist (female fertility expert) associated with an IVF group in your area to get an informed assessment of her chances of pregnancy. That knowledge will help you decide.

All the best,

Dr. Robert Oates
www.robertoatesmd.com

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Answered by Robert D. Oates, MD, FACS

Unfortunately, her chances of pregnancy at age 47 (even though she is still having periods) is extremely limited. My advice is for the two of you to visit a Reproductive Endocrinologist (female fertility expert) associated with an IVF group in your area to get an informed assessment of her chances of pregnancy. That knowledge will help you decide.

All the best,

Dr. Robert Oates
www.robertoatesmd.com

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Naresh Parajuli, MBBS, FRACGP

Published on Dec 03, 2018

First, it is not a good idea to have children at your age. If your wife becomes pregnant, the child has a high risk of developing Down Syndrome and other malformations. Secondly, the chance of a successful reversal is low due to your age and the time since vasectomy.

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Answered by Naresh Parajuli, MBBS, FRACGP

First, it is not a good idea to have children at your age. If your wife becomes pregnant, the child has a high risk of developing Down Syndrome and other malformations. Secondly, the chance of a successful reversal is low due to your age and the time since vasectomy.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Ranjith Ramasamy M.D.

Published on May 24, 2017

Your wife needs to undergo a workup (AMH, day FSH and antral follicle count). Natural conception rates at age 47 are extremely low.

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Answered by Ranjith Ramasamy M.D.

Your wife needs to undergo a workup (AMH, day FSH and antral follicle count). Natural conception rates at age 47 are extremely low.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor John C. McHugh, MD

Published on May 23, 2017

The likelihood of you having a successful vasectomy reversal that results in pregnancy is approximately 30%. If you throw in your wife's age and that she is approaching menopause probably makes that number even lower. Keep in mind most pregnancies after a reversal occur after 6-18 months and more commonly the latter number as the length of time between vasectomy and reversal increases. So it is possible, but there is a low likelihood. Your time clock is indeed ticking.

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

The likelihood of you having a successful vasectomy reversal that results in pregnancy is approximately 30%. If you throw in your wife's age and that she is approaching menopause probably makes that number even lower. Keep in mind most pregnancies after a reversal occur after 6-18 months and more commonly the latter number as the length of time between vasectomy and reversal increases. So it is possible, but there is a low likelihood. Your time clock is indeed ticking.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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