Dr. Larry Lipshultz has helped countless patients in Houston and throughout the state of Texas with their men's health and male fertility issues. This includes diagnosing and treating erectile dysfunction as well as performing effective vasectomy reversal to restore a man's ability to conceive naturally. With regard to the latter, a number of men have asked us whether the vasectomy reversal is preferable to assisted reproduction procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Let's compare the two right now.

About Vasectomy Reversal

Vasectomy reversal is a surgery that helps reconnect the vas deferens (plural, vas deferentia), the tubes that were severed and tied during the initial vasectomy. By doing this, the ability for a man to conceive naturally through intercourse is restored.

How effective is vasectomy reversal?

Vasectomy reversal is most effective when performed on men within three to five years after the initial vasectomy. Vasectomy reversal can be performed on men who underwent a vasectomy a decade or more after the initial vasectomy, though the rates of success and effectiveness are lower.

About In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a popular assisted reproduction treatment that involves the insemination and fertilization of an egg by sperm in a lab setting. When couples are unable to conceive naturally, IVF is useful when addressing male infertility, female infertility, or a combination of male and female infertility.

How effective is in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is generally effective at addressing issues related to male infertility, such as having undergoing a vasectomy. However, sperm will either have to be retrieved from the man's testicles or taken from a sperm donor selected by the couple.

Situations In Which Vasectomy Reversal May Be a Better

If a man has undergone a vasectomy only a few years ago and would like to father children again, vasectomy reversal is a good option to consider. This is particularly true if a man intends to have multiple children as the vasectomy reversal will allow the man to father children through natural conception for the rest of his life.

Situations In Which In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) May Be a Better

If a man has undergone a vasectomy yet only wishes to father a child or perhaps two and/or has had the vasectomy more than a decade ago, in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other kinds of assisted reproduction procedures may be recommended. Sperm retrieval options will allow for men to have children again, and there is also the ability to cryopreserve sperm for future use should a man wish to father children in the future.

Which option is the best for me?

The ideal option for you will be defined by your current situation as well as future goals that involve starting a family. We will discuss all options with you in full detail so that you can make the best possible decision with confidence. By answering all of your questions and addressing all of your concerns, you will be best helped by our team.

Learn More About Your Options for Starting a Family

For more information about vasectomy reversal and your many other options for starting a family of your own, be sure to contact our men's health center today. Dr. Lipshultz will be more than happy to discuss these matters in greater detail and help you make the best possible choices given your situation and needs.