Having Children After Vasectomy
My husband had a vasectomy when he was in his early 20s. We thought about adoption but would like to have children that are genetically related to us. What are our options?
A vasectomy (vas = vas deferens; ectomy = to cut) is the surgical procedure that cuts or clamps the little tube that connects the testes (where sperm are produced) to the urethra (the part of the penis through which sperm passes during ejaculation). As a result the sperm cannot be ejaculated. Sperm production does continue after vasectomy, but at a greatly reduced rate. Vasectomies are reversible but surgery does not guarantee success. The length of time that has elapsed since the vasectomy was performed and the method used to perform the vasectomy are important factors. If the vasectomy reversal is successful, sperm production often can recover to pre-vasectomy levels. Sometimes scarring that develops after reversal blocks vas deferens.
Many couples achieve pregnancy after vasectomy reversal. If sperm production is very low, you may consider using an assisted reproductive technique such as IVF or ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection, used in conjunction with IVF). If the vasectomy reversal is unsuccessful, or if you do not wish to attempt a reversal, sperm can be retrieved directly from the testes for use in an ICSI procedure.
Discuss your desire to have biological children with your gynecologist or infertility specialist. You also can do some research on vasectomy reversal and suggest that your husband discuss the procedure's pros and cons with his urologist. After you understand your options, you can make an informed decision about the course you want to pursue.
A vasectomy (vas = vas deferens; ectomy = to cut) is the surgical procedure that cuts or clamps the little tube that connects the testes (where sperm are produced) to the urethra (the part of the penis through which sperm passes during ejaculation). As a result the sperm cannot be ejaculated. Sperm production does continue after vasectomy, but at a greatly reduced rate. Vasectomies are reversible but surgery does not guarantee success. The length of time that has elapsed since the vasectomy was performed and the method used to perform the vasectomy are important factors. If the vasectomy reversal is successful, sperm production often can recover to pre-vasectomy levels. Sometimes scarring that develops after reversal blocks vas deferens.
Many couples achieve pregnancy after vasectomy reversal. If sperm production is very low, you may consider using an assisted reproductive technique such as IVF or ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection, used in conjunction with IVF). If the vasectomy reversal is unsuccessful, or if you do not wish to attempt a reversal, sperm can be retrieved directly from the testes for use in an ICSI procedure.
Discuss your desire to have biological children with your gynecologist or infertility specialist. You also can do some research on vasectomy reversal and suggest that your husband discuss the procedure's pros and cons with his urologist. After you understand your options, you can make an informed decision about the course you want to pursue.
posted by Kathleen, Contributing Editor at
1:07 PM
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