Recovery
In order to allow for reproduction (via artificial insemination) after vasectomy, some men opt for cryostorage of sperm before sterilization. However, the long term viability of spermatozoa in cryostorage is questionable.
Although men considering vasectomies should not think of them as reversible, and most men and their spouses are satisfied with the operation, there is a procedure to reverse vasectomies using vasovasostomy (a form of microsurgery). It is, however, not effective in all cases, with the success rate depending on such factors as the method used for the vasectomy and the length of time that has passed since the vasectomy was performed. Men who get a vasectomy are advised to freeze their sperm first, because of the chance that the vasectomy will have permanantly damaged their sperm even if reversal is otherwise "successful".
Various temporary male contraceptives are being researched but not yet available, such as male oral contraceptives and the intra vas device. There has been at least one documented case of a vasectomy being reversed on a dog, which then fathered puppies after the reversal.
Reversal
Once the patient has the procedure, complete bed rest (with bathroom privileges only) is advised for the first 24 hours. Patients should not shower, bathe, or wet the incision for 24 hours after the procedure.
Patients are typically advised not to operate a motor vehicle or engage in moderate activity (such as climbing stairs) for 72 hours. Patients may resume normal day-to-day activity after 72 hours but it is recommended that they wear scrotal support (can be found in sporting goods stores) for two weeks. Sexual activity and vigorous exercise (especially bicycle riding) should be avoided during this time. After two weeks, the patient is typically clear to resume all normal activities. |
