How to do IVF after vasectomy?

Every year, in the US alone, around 500,000 men undergo vasectomy as a method of permanent sterilization, but then for some them, the circumstances change and they want a baby again. Reversal of vasectomy is possible but IVF after vasectomy is generally recommended as the better option for men planning parenthood again.

Why not do vasectomy reversal?

Vasectomy reversal is a microsurgery that is technically complex and requires specialized training. It requires the below steps:

1. Examination of the seminal fluid from the end of the cauterized tube to ensure sperm is present in it. This is will decide what kind of vasectomy is to be performed:
2. Decide on the kind of vasectomy reversal to be performed:
3. Vasovasotomy (VV) – the cut ends of the vas deferens are simply rejoined
4. Vasoepididymostomy (VE) – the blockage has to be bypassed so the vas deference is connected directly to the epididymis. This is more complex.
5. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 3-5 hours, but you’re allowed to go home the same day.

Also, semen analysis will be done first after 6 weeks of vasectomy reversal but it can take upto 1 year for the sperm to appear in the ejaculate.

My cousin actually went through IVF after a vasectomy, so yes, it’s very possible. The vasectomy doesn’t stop sperm production, it just blocks the sperm from getting into the semen. Doctors can still retrieve sperm directly and use it for IVF.

From what I understood, the process was basically:

1. sperm retrieval procedure for the husband
2. IVF cycle for the wife
3. ICSI fertilization in the lab

They originally looked into vasectomy reversal too, but their doctor said IVF made more sense because they didn’t want to spend extra time waiting to see whether the reversal worked.

One thing people don’t realize is that the sperm retrieval part is usually pretty quick compared to everything the woman goes through during IVF. The injections, scans, egg retrieval, hormones, all of that is the heavier part physically and emotionally.

Also, don’t panic if you read scary success stories online. A lot depends on age, egg quality, and overall fertility health, not just the vasectomy itself.