Having children of your own can be quite rewarding, and it's a decision that cannot be taken lightly. Some men decide to undergo a vasectomy as a means of birth control, yet have second thoughts about the procedure later on and would like to have the vasectomy reversed. The procedure is known as a vasectomy reversal, and it can be quite effective.

But just how successful is a vasectomy reversal?

That's a question that we'd like to examine right now. The following is some basic information to consider with regard to the success of vasectomy reversal surgery. When you meet with a urologist, you'll be able to get even more detailed information about these matters.

About Vasectomy Reversal

Vasectomy reversal refers to the reconnection of the vas deferens, the tubes that are cut during the initial vasectomy surgery. By reconnecting the vas deferens, men will be able to restore their ability to father children via intercourse.

Timing of Vasectomy Reversal and Success of Procedure

One of the keys to successful vasectomy reversal has to do with the timing of the surgery. The sooner that the reversal surgery is performed after the initial vasectomy, the more likely it will be successful. The greatest chances of success are when the vasectomy reversal is performed within three years of the initial vasectomy.

There are two different measures of success to consider with regard to vasectomy reversal surgery: patency and pregnancy. Let's consider both individually.

Patency Success Rates

Patency success refers to the return of moving sperm to a man's semen after undergoing vasectomy reversal. Roughly 95% of men who undergo a vasectomy reversal will achieve patency success, with up to 80% of men achieving patency success within three months of their surgery. Higher patency success rates are associated with vasovasostomy (vas deferens to vas deferens reconnection) than vasoepididymostomy (epididymis to vas deferens connection).

Pregnancy Success Rates

Pregnancy success rates tend to be a better measure of effectiveness for vasectomy reversal. In general, success rates are greater than 50%, though it really does depend on when the reversal surgery is performed.

If the reversal surgery is performed within three years of the initial vasectomy, there is a success rate of 76%. If the vasectomy reversal is performed between three to eight years after the initial vasectomy, the success rate is 53%; 44% for reversals performed nine to fourteen years after the initial surgery; and 30% for reversals performed after fifteen years or more.

Is vasectomy reversal surgery right for me?

Vasectomy reversal might be an ideal option for you to consider if you would like to father children through natural methods of conception. It's important that you speak with your general practitioner as well as a men's health specialist to find out more about the procedure and any alternatives that you can consider.

Learn More About Your Men's Health Options

If you would like to learn more about vasectomy reversal and your many other options with regard to these kinds of needs, be sure to contact our Houston urology and men's health center today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve excellent health in the process.