Information Relating To Sterilization Reversal

By Andrew Mitchell


Surgical contraception has become one of the most preferred options of birth control. The method is typically chosen by persons who wish to have permanent contraception. However, in some cases, due to one reason or the other, there is a need to regain fertility meaning that the procedure has to be reversed. If you have plans of undergoing sterilization reversal, there are a number of things that you need to understand beforehand.

Microsurgery is the most commonly employed technique when performing vasectomy reversal. It is a method that involves the use of very small surgical cuts (hence the name). Due to the delicate nature of the operation and the small size of structures involved, microscopes are an integral inclusion. There are many other alternative techniques that can be used when performing vasectomy reversal but the microsurgical technique appears to yield the best results.

Restoring semen flow can be achieved in two main ways. The first approach, also known as vasovasostomy, is where the two stumps left behind after vasectomy are re-joined. In the second method, the stump that joins the urethra is joined to the epididymis. This is the region in which sperm cells are stored before ejaculation. This method is thus also known as vasoepididymostomy.

This operation is largely safe with just a few complications being encountered rarely. These include, for instance, excessive bleeding, accumulation of blood within the scrotum and postoperative infections. Fortunately, these are fairly manageable. The success rate of reversal of vasectomy ranges from 70% to 90%. The operation is likely to be successfully when done within three years of vasectomy. Contrary to common belief, age is not a major determinant of success.

The operation is managed as a day case in most centres. It is a procedure in which one is discharged from hospital on the same day that they are operated on. On average, one operation takes between two and four hours depending on the skill of your surgeon and the presence or absence of complications. Since spinal anaesthesia is typically used, you will remain awake as the surgery goes on.

Tubal ligation has many similarities to vasectomy. The actual procedure involves interrupting the continuity of the fallopian tubes. The effect of this is the prevention of fertilization of the ovum by the sperm. There are a number of different methods that can be used. They include clipping, cauterisation and cutting among others. Although tubal ligation was originally designed as a permanent contraceptive method, many people have had it reversed successfully.

The success of reversing tubal ligation is hugely dependent on the technique that is used in blocking the tubes. Clipping, for instance, can be reversed more easily as compared to cutting or cauterizing. You will be subjected to a number of tests by your fertility doctor before undergoing the reversal procedure. This include blood tests as well as radiological imaging studies such as the hysterosalpingogram.

Failure of these surgical procedures is caused by a number of factors. These include, for instance, scar tissue within the tubes. The scar tissue blocks the reproductive tubes and hinders the movement of ova and sperm cells. Failure may also result from the presence of anti-sperm antibodies. The doctor will typically screen for the antibodies before one is subjected to the operation.




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