Phone: (713) 798-4001 | Houston, TX

Dec 5, 2014 — by Larry Lipshultz

A couple spending quality time together outdoorsDr. Larry Lipshultz is one of the leading urologists in the state of Texas, which is why he attracts patients to his practice in Houston from other cities, including Austin and Dallas. He has been able to effectively restore male fertility through vasectomy reversal and has also helped numerous men make smart choices when it comes to starting their own families following a vasectomy.

Vasectomy reversal can do more than just restore a man's fertility, however. It's sometimes an important treatment option for a surgical complication that occurs after the initial vasectomy.

About Vasectomy Reversal Surgery

Vasectomy reversal surgery is a procedure that is performed in order to restore a man's ability to father children through intercourse. It undoes the effects of the initial vasectomy procedure.

Vasectomy Reversal for Pain Relief

In addition to reversing the effects of an initial vasectomy, vasectomy reversal surgery can be used to relieve major pain that occurs as a result of the vasectomy. This condition is known as post-vasectomy pain syndrome.

About Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome

Post-vasectomy pain syndrome refers to mild to severe genital pain that can occur in the immediate recovery of a vasectomy or years down the road.

The discomfort is generally thought to be caused by one or a combination of the following:

  • Pressure within the testicles
  • Overfull epididymis
  • Sperm granuloma
  • Fibrosis
  • Severe inflammation
  • Nerve entrapment

Pain can be persistent in nature or it can sometimes occur at specific times, such as during ejaculation or intercourse.

Is post-vasectomy pain syndrome common?

Many men who undergo vasectomy reversal will experience some amount of minor testicular pain as a result of surgery. Studies have found that 15% to 30% of men who underwent vasectomies reported chronic or troublesome genital pain. While the severity of the discomfort varies, it's only around 2% to 4% of all patients who will develop debilitating testicular pain after their vasectomy that affects overall quality of life.

It's important that any men considering a vasectomy consider the possibility of testicular pain prior to undergoing surgery.

How common is vasectomy reversal for pain relief?

Vasectomy reversal can be performed as a remedy for post-vasectomy pain syndrome in certain cases, though it generally depends on the exact cause of the genital pain. It is often quite effective, particularly if issues with testicular back pressure are the primary reason for the post-vasectomy pain syndrome. Reversing the blockage of the vas deferens tends to be an effective treatment option for these matters, though it's not the only option for treatment to consider.

Trying Non-Invasive Therapies Before Reversal Surgery

Sometimes if the genital pain is minimal or manageable, patients are often asked to consider non-invasive therapies, such as the use of pain relievers or other medications. Minimally invasive treatment options may also be available to address post-vasectomy pain syndrome depending on the nature of the patient's condition.

In general, major pain and sometimes minor yet persistent pain is best addressed through surgical procedures. In addition to vasectomy reversal surgery as noted above, surgeries can also be performed to free nerves trapped by scar tissue or to remove epididymis.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Larry Lipshultz

For more information about vasectomy and vasectomy reversal as well as other issues that affect male reproductive health, we encourage you to contact our men's health medical center today. Dr. Lipshultz looks forward to your visit and helping you make smart choices and achieve total wellness.