Vasectomy Reverse or In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

For couples in which the male has undergone a previous vasectomy, there are two primary methods of achieving pregnancy - a vasectomy reverse and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), with in-vitro fertilization being the most common method. With both processes featuring similar success rates (vasectomy reverse is slightly higher), it can be confusing to determine which is the ideal solution.

For some couples, it may be important to achieve their pregnancy through natural means. This can only be accomplished if the male undergoes a successful vasectomy reverse.

Assisted Reproductive Technology Benefits and Risks

Many women who have had difficulty becoming pregnant can benefit from or even require In-vitro fertility, but this scientifically generated pregnancy solution does have its risks. For starters, the wife would have to undergo a series of injections ranging from four to six weeks. Some women experience mood swings that are very unpleasant. Occasionally a woman can develop excess abdominal fluid collection from these injections if her eggs are over stimulated. This may require draining the fluid with a tube and needle. In-vitro fertility technology greatly increases the chance of the wife producing twins and there is a much higher rate than with natural conception of triplets or even more. When this occurs, the wife and the child(ren) are placed at a greater risk. These multiple birth deliveries result in lower birth weight babies, sometimes prematurity and illness, and greater stress on the woman's body with an increase risk of urinary incontinence following delivery.

In vitro fertility with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (injecting a sperm directly into an egg) is required when using sperm that is removed from the mans testicle or epididymis. Intra-uterine insemination (turkey baster technique) cannot be used unless the man has had a vasectomy reversal and is ejaculating the sperm. The sperm cannot work with intrauterine insemination unless they are in the semen with all its other essential chemicals that allow the sperm to swim to and fertilize the egg.

The Cost of Vasectomy Reverse Vs. IVF

The cost of the procedures are another important factor that couples need to keep in mind. The cost for a vasectomy reverse ranges between $6,000 and $15,000. The cost for in-vitro fertilization can range between $10,000 and $15,000 per treatment and this does not even include the cost of retrieving sperm from the man who had a vasectomy. With treatments ranging from four to six weeks, IVF can be a very expensive solution. IVF is usually at least twice as expensive as vasectomy reverse.

The most important thing is for couples to discuss all of their options with their doctor. No single technique is best suited for everyone. Consider all of your options before making a final decision and ultimately, choose the right method for your individual needs and goals. For some couples, IVF is the best choice but for most couples vasectomy reverse provides the most cost effective and successful solution.

To learn more about vasectomy reverse surgery, visit VasectomyReversalUSA.com or call 714-REVERSE (714.738.3773) today.