Can Pregnancy Occur After a Vasectomy Reversal? the Odds - Urology

Share to:

After a vasectomy reversal, how long might it take to conceive naturally?


My boyfriend had a vasectomy about two years ago and previously suffered from varicocele, but he has since undergone surgery and has had a good prognosis.
A little over two weeks ago, he told me he went to the hospital to get something done, and I didn't think much of it until the day my period was late and I took a pregnancy test, only to find out that I am pregnant?! I have a body that is very prone to conception and had a miscarriage within the past six months, but I have no understanding of vasectomy.
My boyfriend has always believed I have been unfaithful.
I read online that it takes time for the body to metabolize and produce viable sperm after a vasectomy.
I feel helpless and also want to know, if the baby is not his, whose could it be...? I want to ask, is it possible for this situation to occur? It should be, right!? Thank you, doctor! I appreciate your hard work!

Xiao Yun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/28

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: After a vasectomy reversal, it is necessary to perform a semen analysis to check the sperm quality in order to determine if natural conception is possible.
This also depends on the physician's expertise, the individual's health condition, and how long it has been since the vasectomy.
It is difficult to make a general assessment, and it may need to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/08/28

More Info


Pregnancy after a vasectomy reversal is indeed possible, although the odds can vary based on several factors. A vasectomy is a surgical procedure intended to provide permanent contraception by cutting and sealing the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. However, vasectomy reversals, known as vasovasostomy or vasoepididymostomy, can restore the flow of sperm, allowing for the possibility of pregnancy.

In your case, it seems your boyfriend had a vasectomy about two years ago, and he has since undergone surgery for a varicocele, which is a condition that can affect sperm quality and fertility. After a vasectomy reversal, it typically takes some time for sperm to return to the ejaculate, and the success rates for achieving pregnancy can vary widely. Studies suggest that the success rate of achieving pregnancy after a vasectomy reversal can range from 30% to over 90%, depending on factors such as the time elapsed since the vasectomy, the age of the female partner, and the surgical technique used during the reversal.

Regarding your situation, if you have recently discovered that you are pregnant, it is possible that the reversal was successful and that sperm was present in your boyfriend's ejaculate at the time of conception. However, it is also important to consider the timing of the reversal and the potential for residual sperm in the reproductive tract, which can sometimes lead to unexpected pregnancies even after a vasectomy.
In terms of your concerns about fidelity, it is understandable to feel anxious given the circumstances. However, it is crucial to communicate openly with your boyfriend about your feelings and the situation. If there is uncertainty about the paternity of the child, a paternity test can be conducted after the baby is born to provide clarity.

From a medical perspective, it is important to ensure that you receive appropriate prenatal care throughout your pregnancy. Early prenatal visits can help monitor the health of both you and the developing fetus, and they can also provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your pregnancy.

In summary, pregnancy after a vasectomy reversal is possible, and given your recent positive pregnancy test, it is likely that this is the case for you. Open communication with your boyfriend and seeking medical advice will be essential as you navigate this situation. If you have further questions or concerns, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can offer personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Vasectomy: Future Reversal Success Rates and Fertility

Hello Doctor, I am considering undergoing a vasectomy, but I am not yet married and have a partner. I just want to take some responsibility in terms of contraception. I would like to ask, after a vasectomy, if I undergo a reversal procedure in the future, will it affect my fertil...


Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology
There are many contraceptive methods recommended for individuals who are unmarried and without children, but sterilization is not advised as a destructive form of contraception. The rate of reversal after sterilization is low, with less than 10% success after two years post-surge...

[Read More] Understanding Vasectomy: Future Reversal Success Rates and Fertility


Can Vasectomy Reversal Restore Fertility After 20 Years?

Doctor, I have been sterilized for over 20 years, and now I want to have a child. Is it possible? Thank you.


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Yes, it is possible, but the chances of natural conception after the procedure are low, and the costs are not inexpensive. Additionally, some fertility centers perform sperm retrieval, which involves surgically extracting sperm for artificial insemination. The key point is...

[Read More] Can Vasectomy Reversal Restore Fertility After 20 Years?


Can Men Reverse Vasectomy After 5 Years? Understanding Fertility Options

Hello, I would like to ask if I had a vasectomy five years ago and now want to have children, is it possible to reverse it? What are the chances of fertility? I can't remember if it was cut or tied.


Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology
You can choose to undergo a vasectomy reversal or opt for assisted reproductive techniques. The success rate of a reversal is generally around 70%, and the longer the time since the vasectomy, the lower the success rate. If it has only been five years, the success rate is typical...

[Read More] Can Men Reverse Vasectomy After 5 Years? Understanding Fertility Options


Understanding Male Sterilization: Success Rates, Recovery, and Risks

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask: 1. Is the success rate of male sterilization higher? 2. Is there an immediate elimination of pregnancy possibility after male sterilization? 3. If a man regrets after sterilization, is there a chance to reverse it through surgery? 4. Will there ...


Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
After sterilization, it is necessary to use contraception for 2-3 months. If you have regrets, the chances of reversing the procedure through surgery are very low. It is recommended to consult a urologist for an examination and discuss with the physician.

[Read More] Understanding Male Sterilization: Success Rates, Recovery, and Risks


Related FAQ

Post-Vasectomy

(Urology)

Can I Get Pregnant?

(Urology)

Vasectomy

(Urology)

Infertility

(Urology)

Ejaculation

(Urology)

Sperm Count

(Urology)

Sperm

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Post-Electrocautery

(Urology)

Hypospadias

(Urology)

Anal Intercourse

(Urology)