Vasectomy

Vasectomies are one of the most popular methods of sterilization. For many couples who are done having children, a vasectomy offers a form of birth control with a high track record of effectiveness. It is also a very safe procedure.

The procedure works by permanently disrupting the flow of sperm from the testicle to the ejaculatory ducts within the prostate gland. With time, the production of sperm within the testicles gradually slows down and is reabsorbed by the body.

• A man who has a vasectomy will still maintain his ability to climax and will still ejaculate. The main difference is that there will no sperm in the semen.
• In addition, a vasectomy will not impact the testicle’s ability to continue to produce testosterone.

A vasectomy is performed in a doctor’s office and does not require you to “go to sleep” for the procedure.

A traditional vasectomy requires the surgeon to make two small cuts in the upper part of the scrotum, under the penis. The doctor then cuts, ties or blocks the vas deferens. This method requires stitches.

In our practice, we specialize in performing low-pain “no-scalpel” vasectomies. With the “no scalpel” vasectomy method, the entire procedure can usually be done through a single opening measuring less than 1 cm or a quarter of an inch. Since the opening is relatively small, a stitch is not usually needed.

To reduce the discomfort associated with a vasectomy, we use a special anesthetic injector that delivers the local anesthetic without a needle. The sensation of getting struck by a rubber band is commonly described by most of our patients. The discomfort lasts only for a few seconds before the numbness takes effect.

After a vasectomy, a man will be sore for a few days. At least one full day of rest is recommended. A complete recovery can be expected within a week. Many men have the procedure on a Friday and return to work on Monday.

• After a vasectomy, the main limitations are to avoid any significantly strenuous activity for a few days.
• You will also need to avoid any heavy lifting.
• We also advise patients to wear a scrotal supporter for a few days immediately after the procedure.
• Refraining from sexual activity for at least two weeks.

In very rare cases, a man’s tubes, called the vas deferens, can rejoin and pregnancy can occur.

As mentioned, a vasectomy is a very safe procedure. Complications aren’t common, but if they happen, they can include:

• Swelling and/or bruising
• Inflammation
• Infection

The biggest benefit for having a vasectomy is that it is highly effective at preventing pregnancy. Vasectomies are hard – and sometimes impossible – to reverse, so a man should be certain about his decision to have one. Some patients will bank their sperm before they undergo a vasectomy.

Again, it’s important to note that a vasectomy will not affect a man’s testosterone level, climaxes, sex drive or any other aspect of his sex life.