Pregnancy after a vasectomy | CREATE Fertility

Vasectomy is a procedure men can have to avoid causing an unwanted pregnancy. If you’re aiming to become pregnant after your partner has had a vasectomy, there are various options to help you. In this blog we delve into the realistic chances of pregnancy post-vasectomy and highlight key considerations to keep in mind as well as treatment options for those who want to conceive after a vasectomy.

What is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure for male sterilisation or permanent contraception. During a vasectomy, the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra) are cut, blocked, or sealed. This prevents sperm from being released during ejaculation, meaning the individual becomes sterile. Frequently vasectomies can be reversed, however this does not guarantee successful conception.

What are the Chances of Pregnancy after Vasectomy?

While vasectomy is considered a highly effective form of contraception, there is still a small chance of pregnancy after the procedure. According to studies, the risk of pregnancy after vasectomy is estimated to be less than 1 in 1,000. Factors that may influence the chances of pregnancy post-vasectomy include the time elapsed since the procedure, the age and fertility of the female partner, and potential vasectomy failure.

Reasons for Vasectomy Failure

There are several potential reasons for vasectomy failure, leading to the possibility of pregnancy. These reasons may include:

• Spontaneous reconnection of the vas deferens
• Incomplete sealing of the vas deferens during the procedure
• The presence of residual sperm in the ejaculatory ducts

Ways to Get Pregnant after a Vasectomy

For those seeking to conceive after a vasectomy, there are several options available to explore. The first step would involve booking an initial scan, a consultation and a semen analysis (unless a previous analysis already confirmed lack of sperm). This process allows our specialists to gain insight into which options would be most beneficial for your individual circumstances. One approach our practitioners at CREATE Fertility recommend is sperm extraction, where sperm is retrieved directly from the testicles or epididymis for use in assisted reproductive techniques, such as IVF and IVF with ICSI ( intracytoplasmic sperm injection). This allows the egg to be fertilised in-vitro, which is otherwise unlikely to happen with natural conception attempts.

Sperm Extraction

Sperm extraction involves the surgical retrieval of sperm from the male reproductive system. This procedure is often performed when natural conception is not possible due to factors such as vasectomy, very low sperm count or ejaculatory dysfunction. The extracted sperm can then be used in fertility treatments to facilitate pregnancy.

Vasectomy Reversal

Vasectomy reversal, also known as vasovasostomy, is a surgical procedure to reconnect the vas deferens that were previously cut or blocked during a vasectomy. By restoring the flow of sperm from the testicles to the urethra, vasectomy reversal aims to enable natural conception to occur. It is important to note that this process is not always successful and does not guarantee conception.

IVF after a Vasectomy

In cases where natural conception or vasectomy reversal is not feasible, IVF presents a viable option for achieving pregnancy after vasectomy. IVF involves fertilising an egg with sperm (retrieved surgically) outside the body and transferring the resulting embryo to the uterus for implantation. At CREATE Fertility, our Mild IVF protocols are often recommended for couples with male factor subfertility due to obstructions, as mild IVF utilizes minimal hormonal stimulation for the female partner. The quantity and duration of medication used in conventional IVF are not always necessary and can lead to serious complications, such as OHSS (Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome).

How CREATE Fertility Can Help You

Whether you are considering sperm extraction and IVF or vasectomy reversal, our dedicated team of fertility experts is here to provide guidance and personalised treatment options to best suit your needs.  You can contact our team for further information and assistance about pregnancy after a vasectomy or to book an Initial Consultation with one of our consultants.