I had a vasectomy 19 years ago. My partner just told me she's pregnant. Is this even possible?

I am a 56-year-old man who had a vasectomy 19 years ago. I was just told by my partner that she is pregnant.. Is this even possible after 19 years?

Answers from doctors (6)


More About Doctor John C. McHugh, MD

Published on May 08, 2019

It is possible but not probable. A semen analysis will give you the answer.

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

It is possible but not probable. A semen analysis will give you the answer.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Larry I. Lipshultz, MD

Published on Jan 18, 2016

This type of a pregnancy can happen but it is rare. The two ends of the vas can spontaneously reconnect. I suggest you get a semen analysis.

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Answered by Larry I. Lipshultz, MD

This type of a pregnancy can happen but it is rare. The two ends of the vas can spontaneously reconnect. I suggest you get a semen analysis.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Stephen F. Shaban, MD

Published on Jan 18, 2016

Highly unlikely but possible. I would recommend that you go get a semen analysis as soon as possible. If your semen analysis is negative for sperm or positive for sperm, you will likely end up having to ultimately do a paternity test if you elect to follow this pregnancy through to delivery.

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Answered by Stephen F. Shaban, MD

Highly unlikely but possible. I would recommend that you go get a semen analysis as soon as possible. If your semen analysis is negative for sperm or positive for sperm, you will likely end up having to ultimately do a paternity test if you elect to follow this pregnancy through to delivery.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Tae-Woong Im, MD

Published on Jan 18, 2016

Yes, it is possible. I recommend getting a sperm count done.

Answered by Tae-Woong Im, MD (View Profile)

Yes, it is possible. I recommend getting a sperm count done.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Wayne B. Glazier, MD, FACS

Published on Jan 18, 2016

Unfortunately it is possible. Recanilization is a phenomenon where reattachment of the 2 ends that have been interrupted occurs. This is rare but has been reported. A sperm count is required to confirm. I hope this answers your question.

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Answered by Wayne B. Glazier, MD, FACS

Unfortunately it is possible. Recanilization is a phenomenon where reattachment of the 2 ends that have been interrupted occurs. This is rare but has been reported. A sperm count is required to confirm. I hope this answers your question.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Anand M. Dhanda, MD, FACS

Published on Jan 18, 2016

Get a semen analysis done.

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Answered by Anand M. Dhanda, MD, FACS

Get a semen analysis done.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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