Before you opt for a vasectomy reversal, you are likely to want to know what the success rate of such a procedure is like. It is influenced by several factors, all of which have been explained in the following HealthHearty article.
As much as you would like to rely on the different figures that are presented to you, what you need to know is that the effect of a vasectomy reversal varies for everyone depending on a variety of factors. Nothing can be generalized in the field of medicine, and while one procedure may be successful for one person, it may not have a similar effect on another. This is not an attempt to dissuade or discourage you, but before you pin your hopes of conceiving a baby entirely on this procedure, there are some things you need to know about it.
Factors that Affect the Success Rate
The purpose of this procedure is to enable a pregnancy by restoring the flow of sperm in the semen. However, as mentioned earlier, the success rate of this largely depends on a variety of factors. Here are those factors:
Skill of the Surgeon:
First and foremost, the success of this procedure depends on how skilled the surgeon is. Not every surgeon has a similar expertise, and therefore, there are marked differences in the results that are achieved after such a procedure. Just like a vasectomy, a vasectomy reversal is a microsurgery that needs to be performed very accurately. As such, finding a good doctor through referrals is one of the best ways of ensuring a positive result after undergoing this procedure.
Patient Condition After Vasectomy:
The condition of the patient, and that of his tissue after the vasectomy also affect the success of a reversal. The surgeon, based on previous experience, will be able to define the condition of these tissues and the subsequent chances of success.
Time Lapse Since Vasectomy:
Another important factor is the time lapse since the vasectomy. If the operation was performed less than ten years ago, chances are that the success rate will be higher for them than those, who had it more than ten years ago. For instance, if you have had a vasectomy only three years ago, and wish to undergo a reversal, based on various statistics, chances of success are as high as 97% with the chance of a pregnancy standing at 76%. However, if it has been over fifteen years since you had a vasectomy, then chances of success stand at only 71% with the chance of a pregnancy standing at 30%. The longer the time lapse, the lower this success rate becomes.
Sperm Quality After Vasectomy:
The time lapse also affects the probability of pregnancy after a reversal, as there is a tendency of the quality of the sperm to reduce over time, which then cannot complete the fertilization process effectively. As such, this reduces the chances of a pregnancy.
As mentioned earlier, every case is different and thus, the effect is different for every person who undergoes it. Moreover, a vasectomy is intended to be a permanent procedure, which is why, when the channels are made to reopen, their reaction to the procedure may vary. If you happen to undergo a reversal, you will be given some essential recovery tips that you must strictly adhere to, in order to increase the chances of pregnancy.
As mentioned earlier, you must speak to your doctor, and perhaps get a second or third opinion before you undergo this operation, so that you can make an informed decision. There are also some alternatives that you can opt for, after speaking to your doctor. Do not allow your emotions to overpower you, as this is a sensitive issue, and as much as you would want it to be the best solution for your aspirations of a growing family, be mentally prepared for chances otherwise.
