Dr. Larry Lipshultz has received plenty of questions about the many risks and benefits of vasectomy reversal. This is encouraged. When patients receive information about a procedure, it allows them to make smart, empowered decisions about their needs and how these can be met. Dr. Lipshultz always strives to ensure that his patients throughout the greater Houston area and the entire state have information free from half-truths and falsehoods.

One question that comes up a lot about vasectomy and vasectomy reversal is whether the surgeries affect male performance. We want to look into this matter briefly so you understand the issue better.

Is erectile dysfunction common after a vasectomy reversal?

Erectile dysfunction tends to be unlikely after a vasectomy reversal. Men can continue to have normal sexual relations without impotence after undergoing a vasectomy reversal. By contrast, some men have noted that they experience erectile dysfunction or a decrease in libido after they undergo their initial vasectomy.

Many of times this is anecdotal, but there is some hint of truth to the link between these surgeries and erectile dysfunction, though it may not be what you think.

Erectile Dysfunction and Vasectomy: Myth or Reality?

Medically speaking, erectile dysfunction after a vasectomy or a vasectomy reversal is very rare.

Any surgery around the pelvic region, especially the genitals, can potentially cause erectile dysfunction, but the chances of this are usually low. So long as there is no nerve damage or severe complications, men will not experience erectile dysfunction after a vasectomy or vasectomy reversal surgery.

So what causes erectile dysfunction after a vasectomy or a vasectomy reversal?

Many times the actual cause of the erectile dysfunction is psychological rather than physical. Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal are big changes and big decisions, and this can lead to depression, stress, and anxiety, all of which can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Performance anxiety following surgery can also have an affect on a man's ability to sustain an erection.

Physical pain can be an issue as well, such as in post-vasectomy pain syndrome (PVPS).

Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome (PVPS)

PVPS is a condition that some men experience after they undergo a vasectomy, whether soon after the surgery or years later. There are many potential causes of PVPS, including pressure in the vas deferens, pressure in the testicles themselves, inflammation, nerve problems, lesions inside of the scrotum, and fibrosis. Many times the pain occurs during ejaculation. Treating PVPS will involve identifying the exact cause of the pain and tailoring a plan to address those matters.

The pain experienced as a result of PVPS can make getting an erection or maintaining an erection difficult. When combined with the psychological causes of impotence, this can be quite troubling for a man who is healthy by all other measures.

Ways of Addressing Erectile Dysfunction

It's important that you speak with your general practitioner and a urologist about these matters so that you can receive the treatment you need for erectile dysfunction. It's also important that you speak with your partner about these issues, which can make a major difference when it comes to the psychological factors that lead to erectile dysfunction.

Learn More About Men's Health Treatment

For more information about vasectomy reversal and your many other options out there for advanced medical care, be sure to contact our men's health clinic today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best with regard to your overall health and wellness.