However, the odds of pregnancy after a vasectomy are about 55 in 100.
There are two types of vasectomy reversal procedures: avasoepididymostomy(also known as anepididymovasostomy) and avasovasostomy.
It involves reconnecting the two ends of the vas deferens.
Photo composite by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
What Is Recanalization?
This is not the same as a voluntary vasectomy reversal.
Factors Affecting Success Rate
Several different factors affect your potential for restored fertility after a vasectomy reversal.
Reverse Vasectomy Procedure
Like a vasectomy, a vasectomy reversal is typically performed by a urologist.
Heres a basic overview of the process of reversing a vasectomybefore, during, and after the operation.
Pre-Op
Before your procedure, yoururologistwill perform a full evaluation of your fertility and overall health.
Its performed undergeneral anesthesiaand usually takes three to four hours.
They will then perform either a vasovasostomy or a vasoepididymostomy, depending on what you need.
Youll probably be prescribedpain medicationfor a brief period.
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines can also offer relief.
Side Effects and Risks
The most common side effects of a vasectomy reversal are pain and swelling.
More serious complications are rare.
For some people, pregnancy isnt possible for over a year.
Your healthcare provider will likely want to repeatsemen analysesevery three months until sperm is found in your ejaculate.
Cost and Affordability
Because vasectomy reversal is a complex andelective procedure, its unfortunately often expensive.
Health insurance rarely covers it.
The average cost of a vasectomy reversal in the U.S. ranges from around $5,000 to around $15,000.
Summary
Vasectomy reversals are microsurgeries aimed at restoring male fertility after a vasectomy.
There are two types: vasoepididymostomy and vasovasostomy.
Vasectomy reversals are often successful, and serious complications are rare.
However, not everyone who undergoes a successful vasectomy reversal can get their partner pregnant.
If youve had a vasectomy and think you may want to have another child, talk to your urologist.
They can go over the potential benefits and risks of a vasectomy reversal procedure with you.
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Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.Vasectomy.
Last updated: 2015.
