Post-Vasectomy Concerns: Could My Wife Be Pregnant? - Urology

Share to:

Hello, Dr. Du?


I would like to ask the doctor a question: I underwent a vasectomy on September 7, 2016.
A week after the surgery, I began to engage in masturbation and sexual intercourse with my wife.
On November 30, 2016, I went to the hospital to provide a semen sample for testing, and on December 7, 2016, I returned for the results.
The report indicated no sperm present.
On the night of December 9, 2016, I had sexual intercourse with my wife and ejaculated inside her.
On December 14, 2016, my wife mentioned that her period did not arrive, and on December 15, her period still had not come.
I would like to ask the doctor if this means she is pregnant.
Thank you!

Liu Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/15

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: After a vasectomy, it may take more than ten ejaculations for sperm to be absent in the semen.
Sexual intercourse on December 9th will definitely not result in pregnancy, but there is a significant chance of pregnancy between September 7th and December 7th if no contraception was used (if the couple used contraception, it is mostly safe).
It is recommended to take a home pregnancy test or wait a bit longer.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2016/12/15

More Info


After undergoing a vasectomy, many patients have concerns regarding the possibility of their partner becoming pregnant. In your case, you had the procedure on September 7, and subsequent tests indicated that there were no sperm present in your semen by December 7. This is a crucial point because a vasectomy typically requires a period of time for all remaining sperm to clear from the reproductive tract, which can take several weeks to months.
Given that you had unprotected intercourse on December 9, just two days after your semen analysis showed no sperm, the likelihood of your wife becoming pregnant is extremely low. However, it is essential to consider a few factors:
1. Timing of Sperm Clearance: After a vasectomy, it is recommended to wait for a certain period and have follow-up semen analyses to confirm the absence of sperm. Since your test showed no sperm, it indicates that the vasectomy was effective at that point.

2. Menstrual Cycle: If your wife has missed her period, it could be due to several reasons unrelated to pregnancy, such as stress, hormonal changes, or other health issues. It is important for her to take a home pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider for confirmation.

3. Vasectomy Failure: While rare, there is a possibility of a vasectomy failure, which can occur if the vas deferens spontaneously reconnects or if there was a surgical error. However, since you had a follow-up test confirming no sperm, this is unlikely in your case.

4. Pregnancy Testing: If your wife’s period does not arrive soon, it would be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable and can provide quick results. If the test is positive, she should consult with her healthcare provider for further evaluation.

5. Emotional Considerations: The uncertainty surrounding potential pregnancy can be stressful. It is important to communicate openly with your partner about your feelings and concerns. If necessary, consider seeking counseling or support to navigate this emotional landscape.

In summary, based on the information provided, the chances of your wife being pregnant after having unprotected intercourse two days after a confirmed no-sperm result from your semen analysis are very low. However, if her period does not arrive, a pregnancy test is the next logical step to clarify the situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any further concerns you may have.

Similar Q&A

Vasectomy and Pregnancy Concerns: Understanding Risks and Menopause

After undergoing a vasectomy in October of last year, I had two semen analyses in November, and another one three months later, all showing zero sperm count. Although my girlfriend has occasionally experienced late periods in the past, she has recently had another late period. Sh...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Based on your description, the chance of pregnancy is 0. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Vasectomy and Pregnancy Concerns: Understanding Risks and Menopause


Can Vasectomy Fail? Understanding Pregnancy Risks After Procedure

Hello, doctor. I have been sterilized for several years. Recently, I had sexual contact with a woman without using a condom, and she mentioned that her menstrual period was due in a few days. However, almost a month later, she said her period did not come and she might be pregnan...


Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
Yes! I have encountered cases of reconnected individuals. Please visit a urologist at the hospital for a semen analysis.

[Read More] Can Vasectomy Fail? Understanding Pregnancy Risks After Procedure


Can a Man Who Was Sterilized 10 Years Ago Still Impregnate?

Hello Dr. Liu: This issue has been troubling me for a long time as I keep seeing many different answers. I would like to seek your professional opinion for a correct indicator, thank you in advance. My boyfriend had a vasectomy about ten years ago. Is it possible that it has loos...


Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
It is possible, but the chances are very slim. Essentially, a vasectomy involves cutting and tying off both vas deferens. It is quite unlikely for them to reconnect on their own, but in my 30 years of experience, I have indeed seen two cases where spontaneous reconnection occurre...

[Read More] Can a Man Who Was Sterilized 10 Years Ago Still Impregnate?


Considering Pregnancy After Vasectomy: What Are Your Options?

Hello doctor, my husband had a vasectomy in April 2017. At that time, we considered that he already had a child from a previous marriage. Now, due to certain circumstances, we are considering having a child. Could you please advise us on what we should do? My husband was born in ...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if you are planning to conceive, it is recommended that your husband consult a urologist for assistance. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Considering Pregnancy After Vasectomy: What Are Your Options?


Related FAQ

Post-Vasectomy

(Urology)

Vasectomy

(Urology)

Can I Get Pregnant?

(Urology)

Infertility

(Urology)

Sperm Count

(Urology)

Premature Ejaculation

(Urology)

Pain After Ejaculation

(Urology)

Post-Electrocautery

(Urology)

Semen Analysis

(Urology)

Condom

(Urology)