Yes, there is an alternative to vasectomy reversal which needs an explanation.
If you have found this page, it is likely that you or your partner has had a vasectomy at some stage, you want to have a child and you may be trying to make a decision based on cost and likely pregnancy.
The Vasectomy Reversal Alternative
In Vitro Fertilisation or IVF is the basis upon which treatment for infertility takes place, even if you were once fertile (before your vasectomy) you would still be classified as infertile.
IVF is now used to treat a wide range of fertility problems including post-vasectomy. Normally in IVF, the male produces a sample on the day the eggs are harvested and this is used for fertilisation. When the male has had a vasectomy, the spem has to be obtained via sperm aspiration from the testes. This is also known as Surgical Sperm Recovery. This is relatively straightforward and minor procedure which requires an anaesthetic. The collected sperm are then used for ICSI (Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection) and are injected directly into the egg.
Whilst this explanation might seem straightforward, it involves significant costs:
around £3000 plus for the IVF
an additional £1200 plus for the ICSI.
the surgical sperm recovery which is around £1000
the cost of the medications so that the female can mature the most eggs as safely possible, on a certain day to maximise the chances of conception which are from £1100 upwards).
consultation costs, scan costs and the HFE fee costs.
There are also additional costs (all approximate):
Semen freezing including 1 year of storage £500
Semen freezing (use within 3 months) £250
Semen storage (annually after 1 year) £360
Embryo freezing £2800
Embryo storage £300
Frozen embryo transfer £200-1000
Any additional pre-treatment tests
The couple both need to undergo tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C and Chlamydia (all chargeable)
For women, IVF is quite an emotional roller coaster as the medications given for ovarian stimulation cause fluctuations in normal hormones levels on a much greater scale.
So all in all, whilst for some IVF is vital and the only opportunity to have a child, others choose to have a vasectomy reversal. Once the operation and recovery period is over, there is the chance to have a baby by natural means. As Mr Harriss's success rates are high, having a vasectomy reversal is a chance that many couples take. Not only are they delighted with the outcome, but their costs are also contained.
One final consideration, the chances of a birth defect or congenital problem with a baby are NOT increased in pregnancies associated with vasectomy reversal.
Other pages which might be immediately helpful to you:
All the information on this site does not replace the personal information that can be obtained through direct doctor/patient contact but is to help you find information about vasectomy reversals and possible outcomes.
