Former ‘Bachelor’ star reverses vasectomy after scheduling it without his wife’s input—what it says about parenthood
Parenthood is full of decisions—some made in the heat of exhaustion, others with years of deliberation. Former Bachelor star Arie Luyendyk Jr. is proving that even the biggest choices, like permanent birth control, aren’t always final. After initially scheduling a vasectomy without discussing it with his wife, Lauren Luyendyk, Arie has now had the procedure reversed, opening the door for their family to grow once again.
The couple shared their evolving perspective in a recent YouTube video, detailing why Arie initially opted for a vasectomy after the birth of their twins—and why he’s now changing course.
From ‘done’ to ‘one more’—why Arie reversed his vasectomy
In 2021, Arie, now 43, decided to undergo a vasectomy, feeling confident that their family was complete after welcoming twins Senna and Lux, now 3. But as their children grew older, his mindset shifted.
“All of our kids are, like, the best age right now. And I just felt like, ‘Dang it, I think we could do this again,’” he said in their video.
While Lauren was initially surprised, she admitted she’s warming up to the idea of another baby: “I’m getting there. Arie is totally there.”
Related: Hilary Duff’s husband hilariously chronicled his vasectomy: ‘10/10 would recommend’
Vasectomies are on the rise—but some men are reversing them
Arie’s story reflects a broader trend: more men are choosing vasectomies, but reversals are also becoming a consideration for some.
Vasectomies have surged in popularity. In the three months following the June 2022 Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade, there was a 225% increase in vasectomy consultations compared to the same period in 2021.
Vasectomy reversals are possible but not guaranteed. While reversal surgery can reconnect the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm), success rates depend on factors like how much time has passed since the original procedure.
How vasectomy reversal works—and what to consider
A vasectomy reversal, or vasovasostomy, is a delicate procedure where a surgeon reconnects the severed vas deferens. Here’s what you should know:
Success rates vary. Success rates are higher when the reversal is performed sooner after the vasectomy. According to the Cleveland Clinic, success rates can be as high as 95% if the vasectomy was done within the last 10 years, though this rate starts to decline at 15 years.
It’s a longer, more complex surgery than a vasectomy. Reversals typically take up to 4 hours and require general anesthesia.
Recovery is longer. Post-operative recovery may involve swelling and discomfort, with normal activities generally resuming within a few weeks.
Pregnancy isn’t guaranteed. While sperm may return to the semen, achieving pregnancy depends on various factors, including the time since the vasectomy and the fertility health of both partners.
Related: Ashley Graham says her husband was ‘not laid up in bed’ after his vasectomy
Changing your mind about family size is normal
Arie and Lauren’s journey highlights something many parents experience—what feels like the “right” number of kids can change over time.
For exhausted parents in the newborn trenches, the idea of adding more kids might seem impossible. But as children grow and routines settle, some parents reconsider, even after making permanent birth control decisions.
Vasectomy is one of the most effective forms of birth control, but it doesn’t always mean the conversation about family size is over. Arie Luyendyk Jr.’s reversal is a reminder that parenthood is an evolving journey—one where minds, hearts, and even medical choices can change.
For those considering a vasectomy or reversal, it’s crucial to talk with your partner, consult a doctor, and think about long-term family goals before making a final decision.
Sources:
How effective is vasectomy? National Institutes of Health. How effective is vasectomy?
Vasectomy reversal. Mayo Clinic. Vasectomy reversal.
Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal. Mount Sinai. Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal.
Vasectomy Reversal: Facts You Need To Know. Cleveland Clinic. Vasectomy Reversal: Facts You Need To Know.
Short-Term Changes in Vasectomy Consults and Procedures. AUA Journals. Short-Term Changes in Vasectomy Consults and Procedures Following Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization.
