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Erectile Dysfunction after Vasectomy Reversal

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects millions of men worldwide, causing difficulties in achieving and maintaining satisfactory erections.

One concern that a very few men worry about is whether vasectomy reversal, a surgical procedure performed to restore fertility in men who have previously undergone a vasectomy, can contribute to the development of ED.

While the success rates of vasectomy reversal have improved significantly over the years, some men may experience ED following the procedure. That's why our experts advise that men who are in this situation should approach us if they are having problems with sexual intercourse as it may be as a result of psychological factors, anxiety or an indication of poor health and should be investigated and accessed.

This can be done in the strictest confidence - Your history is totally confidential and not shared with third parties.

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What is Vasectomy Reversal?

Vasectomy reversal involves reconnecting the vas deferens, which were previously cut or sealed during the vasectomy procedure.

By re-establishing the flow of sperm, this surgical intervention allows couples to conceive naturally. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, and ED is one of them.

a man holding his crotch in pain

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction after Vasectomy Reversal

Surgical trauma: During the vasectomy reversal procedure, delicate structures, nerves, and blood vessels in the reproductive system may sustain some damage. This trauma can disrupt the normal physiological processes involved in achieving and maintaining an erection.

Psychological factors: Men who undergo vasectomy reversal may experience anxiety, stress, or psychological pressure regarding their fertility. These emotional factors can contribute to the development or worsening of erectile dysfunction.
Vascular issues: Vasectomy reversal surgery can inadvertently lead to vascular complications. Damage to blood vessels or inadequate blood supply to the penis can impair the ability to achieve and sustain an erection.
Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations may occur after vasectomy reversal, potentially affecting testosterone levels. Testosterone plays a crucial role in male sexual function, and any disruption in its production or balance can contribute to erectile problems.
Pre-existing conditions: It's important to consider that pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease, can influence erectile function. These underlying health issues may be unrelated to the vasectomy reversal surgery but can contribute to or exacerbate ED symptoms.

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Solutions and Treatment Options Following Erectile Dysfunction after Vasectomy Reversal

1. Medications: Oral medications, such as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors like ‘little blue pills', can often help men with vasectomy reversal-related ED. These medications enhance the blood flow to the penis, facilitating the achievement and maintenance of an erection. However, their effectiveness can wane over time.

2. Counselling and support: Psychological factors are often intertwined with erectile dysfunction. Seeking professional counselling can help individuals address any emotional distress, anxiety, or performance anxiety associated with fertility concerns.

3. Penile rehabilitation: Techniques such as vacuum erection devices (VED) or penile injections may be utilized to improve blood flow to the penis and maintain sexual function. However, these do interfere with the ability to enjoy spontaneous sexual intercourse with your partner.

You can find out more about the procedure for Vasectomy Reversal by following this link.

Shockwave Therapy for Treating ED following Vasectomy Reversal

We have found that Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT) treatment for ED is often suitable for treating men who have had an operation for vasectomy reversal. This innovative therapy targets the vascular system, stimulating the creation of new blood vessels, regenerating existing ones, and significantly improving nerve and surrounding tissue function. By enhancing blood flow to the erectile tissues, FSWT enables individuals to achieve natural erections without relying on pills or methods that may interfere with foreplay, offering a potential avenue for individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical solutions.

The erectile dysfunction therapy we undertake at our clinic is performed using the latest Swiss engineered technology shockwave system, the STORZ DUOLITH® SD1 which provides ultra-focused shock wave therapy, superior to radial shockwave used by many other practitioners and which is the most advanced device of its kind available today.

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Using Functional Magnetic Stimulation to Treat ED

We also use Functional Magnetic Stimulation (FMS) to treat men who have ED. FMS is a non-invasive treatment modality that uses high-intensity electromagnetic fields to stimulate nerves in the pelvic area, which can improve blood flow to the penis.

FMS helps improve penile blood flow and erectile function by addressing important underlying factors that contribute to ED.