Dr. Larry Lipshultz has helped patients from Austin and other cities throughout the state with their men's health needs. In particular, he's been able to advise many men on the risks and benefits of vasectomy reversal surgery. An effective solution for many patients, there are some matters that could require patience to resolve. With that in mind, we'd like to consider how sperm quality may be affected by vasectomy reversal.
What does sperm quality refer to?
Sperm quality refers to a broad range of factors that affect a man's fertility. Specifically, fertility experts will examine a man's sperm in a lab and assess various factors. Some of the common issues in assessing sperm quality include the following:
- Sperm Count - Sperm count refers to the number of sperm present in a man's semen when he ejaculates. Low sperm count can make successful conception less likely.
- Sperm Motility - Sperm motility refers to the ability for a person's sperm to swim and maneuver properly. Poor sperm motility means that sperm are less likely to be successful when trying to reach an egg.
- Sperm Morphology - Sperm morphology refers to issues involving the shape of the sperm. Sperm with shorter tails, two heads, abnormally shaped heads, or other irregular features are poor in quality and may cause birth defects and other issues if they are even able to reach an egg.
Sperm Quality Issues After Vasectomy Reversal
Sometimes after a vasectomy reversal is performed, a man may have issues with sperm quality. This often involves issues with sperm count and sperm motility, though issues with morphology are not unheard of follow vasectomy reversal.
In many cases, sperm count and sperm motility issues resolve in the months after surgery. For instance, patency (the return of sperm into a man's ejaculate following vasectomy reversal) often improves by the end of several months following surgery.
Testing a Man's Semen to Assess Sperm Quality
If you and your partner have been unable to conceive several months after vasectomy reversal, it's a good idea to undergo sperm quality testing with a fertility specialist or a men's health specialist. This will allow you to monitor the success of vastectomy reversal and determine what other factors may be in play when it comes to starting a family. Professional analysis can make a major difference.
Patience with the Healing and Recovery Process
The most important thing is to be patient and to understand that success after vasectomy reversal can take some time. Continue to follow post-operative instructions and consult with your doctor regarding any concerns that you may have.
Treatments and Alternatives to Consider
Keep in mind that there are always alternatives to consider when it comes to starting the family that you have always wanted. We will be more than happy to go over clinical treatment options as well as other options that may prove helpful to you and your partner.
Speak with Dr. Larry Lipshultz About Your Treatment Options
To learn more about sperm quality and other factors that affect male fertility after a vasectomy reversal, be sure to contact our men's health and urology center today. Dr. Larry Lipshultz and the entire team here is eager to discuss all of your options for care with you in much greater detail.