Vasectomy reversal in the UK: Cost, side effects, how it works, NHS availability and other frequently asked questions
It is possible to reverse a vasectomy, but it’s a complicated procedure that isn’t guaranteed to be a success
THOUSANDS of men in the UK have chosen to be sterilised but some may want a vasectomy reversal later in life.
But what are the costs and are there any side effects to getting things swapped back?
Can you reverse a vasectomy and can a vasectomy reverse on its own?
Vasectomy is the name given to a minor operation that works to block sperm from being ejaculated during sex.
It is possible to reverse a vasectomy, but it’s a complicated procedure that isn’t guaranteed to be a success.
During a vasectomy, the tubes that carry the fluid from a man’s testicles to the penis are cut, blocked or sealed.
When you get a reversal, the sperm-carrying tubes that were cut or blocked are joined back together or unsealed.
A vasectomy can reverse on its own but this is rare and is known as recanalisation.
Recanalisation is the process where sperm regains the ability to enter a man's semen after he has had a vasectomy.
However the Harvard Medical School has reported that this only occurs in approximately one in 4,000 vasectomies.
How much does it cost to reverse a vasectomy?
It is possible to get a reversal if you pay privately, but it can cost thousands of pounds.
Many clinics in the UK charge around £3,000 or more.
You should bear in mind when weighing up the cost that sometimes the procedure isn’t a guaranteed success.
In some cases, fertility doesn’t return, even after the tubes are rejoined.
What is the success rate of reversing a vasectomy?
The success rate of the reversal procedure can depend on the type of vasectomy you have and when it took place.
According to the NHS website, the estimate rate is:
- Around 75 per cent – if you had your reversal within three years
- Up to 55 per cent – if you had your reversal after three to eight years
- Around 30 to 40 per cent – after nine to 19 years
The quicker you reverse it, the less scar tissue may form in the tubes that carry sperm to your penis.
Even if you have a reversal and have sperm in your semen, pregnancy may not be possible as your sperm may be less mobile than before the procedure.
What are the side effects of a vasectomy reversal?
A vasectomy reversal is considered to be a very safe procedure and side effects in healthy men are rare.
Less than 5 per cent of men that have the procedure experience complications from hematoma - a sizeable pool of blood that collects in the scrotum due to a ruptured blood vessel.
Swelling is expected after the operation but excessive swelling could be down to hematoma.
As with any medical procedure there is always a risk of infection which can be treated with antibiotics.
Most doctors say you should wait 2-3 weeks after the procedure to have sex.
More on health
Can you reverse a vasectomy on the NHS?
A vasectomy reversal is not typically available on the NHS.
If you manage to find somewhere that offers it on the NHS in your area, you may need to join a long waiting list.
If you are keen to look into the procedure, speak to your GP to see what they advise.