Is the fluid quality noted at the time of a vasectomy reversal important?

reversal with vasal fluid

When someone has a vasectomy reversal the vas deferens is transected above and below the previous vasectomy site. The portion of the vas deferens coming from the testicle most commonly has fluid that will be released when when it is cut. This fluid becomes more particulate the longer it has been since the vasectomy. So the sooner a person has vasectomy reversal after a vasectomy, the better the quality of the fluid and the less negative effect on the testicle in returning to producing good sperm.  Clear fluid with whole sperm is good, milky fluid with some whole sperm and sperm parts (head and tails) is better, and creamy fluid with fully decomposed sperm without identifiable sperm or parts is even less desirable. This is why the further out a couple is from a vasectomy, the lower the success rates with achieving the number and quality of sperm to eventuate in pregnancy.

In the picture above, the patient is in the 1-3 year range post-vasectomy and the fluid is clearish/milky and the microscopic evaluation revealed whole sperm and sperm parts. The success rate is then that which is expected from a patient in this situation i.e. patentcy 90% and pregnancy 75%.

Most all of this can be predicted at the time of a vasectomy reversal consult to honestly give the reversal couple a pretty good picture of their chances in success, but more importantly the likelihood that despite the time, money and inconvenience experienced by the male, that the procedure may not result in pregnancy.

So the fluid quality tells you a lot, is very important and is often times associated based on the number of years since the vasectomy and the success rate of the vasectomy reversal.

We do vasectomy reversals on a regular basis, offer a convenient package deal pricing, free pre-reversal consultation, and complimentary overnight stay in Gainesville if necessary.  Contact us by email for either the free consultation in the office or a phone consultation with Dr. McHugh.

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