Those looking for information on a vasectomy reversal are often concerned with what to expect. This feeling is completely natural. They want to know what to expect before the surgery, and what to expect after the surgery. They may also want some information on the procedure itself, though it seems as though most men would rather not hear the actual details. Those that are interested in the details of what to expect before, during, and after a vasectomy reversal should read on. Before a vasectomy reversal, the man needs to decide exactly why they want to undergo such an extreme procedure. For a surprisingly large number of men they see a vasectomy as a temporary form of birth control, and something that can easily be changed later. This is not recommended by doctors simply because of the seriousness of the procedures and length of time it takes some individuals to recover. In the majority of cases where a vasectomy reversal is sought, the man has had a lifestyle change that has changed his mind on having children. The first step in a vasectomy reversal is to seek help from a medical professional. The man will need to see not only their regular doctor, but the doctor who will preform their operation. They may be asked the reason why they need a vasectomy reversal, and they will be required to give a sample of their sperm. This sample will be tested to ensure that the sperm is viable and capable of fertilizing an egg. If the sperm is sick or otherwise unhealthy, the doctor may recommend the individual not undergo the surgery. The actual vasectomy reversal process will only take a few short hours, often times less than two hours. The patient will have the choice of a local anaesthesia during which time they will be kept awake the entire time, but unable to feel anything below the waist. Many men prefer to be put to sleep during the procedure. Men can also chose to have their doctor take a certain amount of sperm during the procedure and freeze it for later use. This is a popular choice since a certain number of vasectomy reversals do not work. After the vasectomy reversal the man will stay in the hospital for a few hours, or overnight. During this time the doctors can keep a close eye on their recovery, and look for any problems that may arise. Once the man is allowed to go home, there are certain rules that must be followed. For the first four weeks after the surgery, there is no sexual intercourse of any kind allowed. They are also warned to avoid showering and swimming pools for a few days after their vasectomy reversal. A vasectomy reversal should be done by a medical professional with experience in the field. Though the process works for some, it is worth noting that not everyone experiences a successful vasectomy reversal. There are documented cases of men who have their vasectomy reversed, but are unable to father children. This usually happens if the original surgery happened over fifteen years before the reversal.