Vasectomy reversal is a surgery that can make men with a previous vasectomy fertile again. During a vasectomy surgery, the tubes that allow the sperm to travel from the testicles are disconnected. A vasectomy reversal will restore the original state of these tubes and if successful, the patient will be able to have children. The lifestyle after vasectomy reversal is important, as it may influence the fertility of the patient.
Vasectomy Reversal Results
The vasectomy reversal is a risky procedure, but approximately 50% of the patients experience successful surgeries. The sperm count will not return to a normal level immediately after the procedure. The patient will have to have a certain lifestyle in order to be able to have children again. The patient is advised to wait for at least 6 months before trying to conceive a baby.
Diet after Vasectomy Reversal
The patient will be encouraged to eat certain foods, which can improve the sperm count and help him be fertile again. The diet should contain an increased amount of vitamins and minerals, which will boost the production of sperm. Patients will be recommended to get supplements of zinc, which is a great fertility booster for men. Consequently, the diet should include beef, pork, chicken, fish, wheat, brown rice, nuts and beans, which all contain zinc in different amounts.
Folic acid supplements may also be recommended for male fertility. Folic acid may also be found in food such as:
- Green leaf vegetables
- Beans, peas and other legumes
- Liver
- Baked goods
- Seeds
- Orange juice
Vitamin C can also be supplemented for men after a vasectomy reversal surgery. Vitamin C can be obtained from citrus fruits and dairy products. Other substances that are recommended for men after a vasectomy reversal procedure include:
- Selenium (found in all types of nuts)
- Vitamin E (in wheat and seeds)
- L-arginine (in soy and chickpeas)
Non organic products, especially dairy products and meats, may affect fertility in men. These can contain an increased amount of estrogen and this can affect the quality of the sperm.
Lifestyle after Vasectomy Reversal
There are a few things a vasectomy reversal surgery patient should avoid to boost his sperm count and ensure he is able to conceive:
- Saunas, hot baths and heated areas, which can temporarily destroy the quality of the sperm or reduce sperm count
- Wearing tight underwear or pants, which can also reduce the sperm count
- Motorcycle and bicycle rides
- Prolonged sitting (over 50 minutes at one time), as this can result in heating of the testicles and reduce sperm count.
The patient should also reduce his exposure to different toxins that can affect fertility. Exposure to chemicals, paints, smoke, marijuana or excessive alcohol consumption can affect fertility and may not allow the vasectomy reversal patient to conceive.
Regular exercise is recommended to maintain the vasectomy reversal patient’s health.
