Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversal

What is Vasectomy?

Vasectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tube that transports sperm from the testicles is cut so that sperm are prevented from leaving the body.

The purpose is to make a man sterile (unable to father a child). Vasectomy is intended as a permanent form of male contraception.

Vasectomy Procedure

Sperm are produced inside the testicles and mature in the epididymis, a coiled network of tubes located behind each testicle. When ejaculation occurs, sperm travel from the epididymis to a tube called the vas deferens.

The vas deferens connects to the seminal vesicles, where sperm then mix with other seminal fluids and exit the penis through a tube called the urethra.

In a vasectomy, the vas deferens is cut and the ends are tied off, so that semen no longer contains sperm. The procedure does not affect sex drive or the ability to have an erection and ejaculate.

What is Vasectomy Reversal?

Vasectomy reversal is an option for couples who would like to conceive a child naturally after a vasectomy has been performed.

A vasovasostomy, or vasectomy reversal, is an operation to reconnect the two ends of the vas deferens that were separated at the time of a vasectomy. The reconnection allows sperm to again mix with seminal fluid and leave the body.

Advances in microsurgical techniques and the use of an operating microscope have brought improved success to vasectomy reversal.

Our Consultants

Mr. Paul Hegarty and Mr. Imtiaz Ahmad perform vasectomy reversals. For a full listing of our urology consultants visit us here.

Contact Us About Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversal Procedure at UPMC

If you have questions about a vasectomy or a vasectomy reversal, discuss with your GP in the first instance. If a referral is required, you can visit one of our experts at UPMC Aut Even Hospital, UPMC Whitfield Hospital or UPMC Kildare Hospital.