How to Help Sperm Transport After a Vasectomy Reversal

A vasectomy reversal is simply a medical procedure that reattaches the tubes cut during the original vasectomy. And while the tubes that transport viable sperm to the semen are now connected, not all reversal surgeries are successful. This may be a result of another obstruction, abnormal immune response, reduced motility of the sperm or failed reversal. To potentially counteract these complications, there are things you can do that may help eventually improve your fertility.

Step 1

Have your sperm count regularly tested. Since no two people are exactly alike, your body's response to a vasectomy reversal will be different than that of other men, so have your sperm tested regularly. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can take upwards of 15 months to determine whether or not a reversal is successful.

Step 2

Talk to your doctor about another procedure. Sometimes, the absence of sperm is a result of an obstruction, according to the Urology Department at Johns Hopkins. Another procedure is necessary to circumvent the obstruction and return normal transport of sperm.

Step 3

Limit ejaculations, especially prior to ovulation. If you're trying to get pregnant, limit the number of ejaculations, according to the Mayo Clinic. It may reduce your sperm count and make conception more difficult.

Step 4

Wear loose-fitting undergarments and pants. Sometimes the heat caused by tighter-fitting underwear, pants or jeans can decrease the production of sperm, affecting sperm count and transport.

Step 5

Try to drop those excess pounds. For some men, the added weight can affect the production of sperm, thereby decreasing transport after a reversal procedure. To combat this, try to bring your weight down into a healthy range for your age, height and body type.

Step 6

Avoid the use of stimulants and depressants. Alcohol, tobacco, narcotics and other similar substances can affect sperm production and transport, even more so after a vasectomy reversal.

Tips and Warnings

  • Beside the heat from tighter-fitting clothing, sperm production can also be affected by hot showers, hot tubs and other activities that may increase the temperature around your testicles.

References

Last updated on: Nov 25, 2009

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