If you have had a vasectomy and circumstances have changed so that you decide that you now want children, you may decide to have reversal surgery. If successful, it will mean that you will have sperm in your semen again and be able to have children. However, this procedure does not always work, and the longer that it’s been since your vasectomy procedure, the less likely it is to succeed. Other factors will also influence the likelihood of success, including the type of vasectomy you had and your age.

This procedure can potentially restore your ability to father children naturally by increasing the chances of getting pregnant. If successful, it can mean that alternative fertility treatments such as IVF aren’t required. As the recovery experience from vasectomy reversal is similar to that of vasectomy, it will be familiar to you and you’ll know what to expect following your surgery.

By restoring your fertility, you could find that your emotional wellbeing improves and that you feel a boost in your self-esteem.

Just like every surgical procedure, vasectomy reversal carries a degree of risk and potentially could have complications. As a guide, these could include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling or bruising
• Sperm granuloma
• Scarring or blockage of the vas deferens
• Failure to restore fertility

Vasectomy reversal surgery is generally performed under local anaesthetic. Once this has taken effect and the area being operated on is numbed so that you can’t feel anything, your surgeon will begin the procedure.

They’ll make a small incision in your scrotum so that they can access the vas deferens. They’ll then reconnect the tubes that were previously cut, tied, or sealed during your original vasectomy procedure through microsurgical techniques. The time that the procedure will take will depend on how complex the surgery is and the specific technique your surgeon is using.

Whether vasectomy reversal surgery is the right treatment for you will depend on several different factors, including your age, your medical history, overall health and personal preferences. The length of time that has passed since your vasectomy will also have a bearing on this, as will your fertility goals and expectations.

As with any surgical procedure, you should be aware of the potential risks and complications that surgery brings, and your surgeon will talk to you about the risks and potential side effects of vasectomy reversal at your consultation.

Following your vasectomy reversal, you may experience some discomfort during your initial recovery period. You can take over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol to manage this, and applying ice packs can help to reduce swelling and discomfort in your scrotum. By wearing snug-fitting underwear, you can help to support your scrotum and so minimise swelling, too.

Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and sexual activity for 2 to 4 weeks after surgery to give yourself the best opportunity to recover.

Attending your follow-up appointments is important, as these will help to monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have about your vasectomy reversal.