My partner's ex made him get a vasectomy 10 years ago. He has been sperm tested and no sperm was detected. Now we want kids. How can this happen?

The vasectomy can be reversed. The technical term is a vasovasostomy. In that procedure the cut ends of the tubes that carry sperm (which are call the vas deferens) are sutured back together. This is not always possible and in the best of hands is about 50%. There are also techniques to harvest sperm directly from the testicles which can then be implanted in your wife and a pregnancy can be achieved.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes, you have two options. In vitro involves a reproductive specialist fertilizing the female egg with the male's sperm. A vasectomy reversal can be performed by a urologist. Both have their pros and cons in terms of expense, success rates and whether or not the male has to have a surgical procedure. The net is replete with discussions of the two options. An easy way to start this journey after your initial evaluation, is to schedule an appointment with either a urologist who does reversals commonly or a reproductive specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Consult with a urologist who treats post vasectomy fertility issues. A vasectomy reversal or sperm retrieval for in vitro fertilization are options.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Hi, a vasectomy reversal is one of the best options for you. There is a myth out there that 10 years is some magic time point but that is not true. In expert hands, he would have a greater than 90% chance of having sperm in his ejaculate. Men keep making sperm so there would be no concern that sperm are not still being produced unless there is something that may prevent it such as testosterone use or anabolic steroid use. I hope this helps, Dr Oates.

Published on Jul 11, 2012