Vasectomy is the most effective form of permanent contraception for men. A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure that stops the flow of sperm between the testicle and the urethra by blocking the vasa deferentia, the tube-like structure that carries sperm to the testicle and through the urethra to the ejaculatory duct.
The Vasectomy Procedure
A vasectomy is a minor procedure that consists of the cutting and sealing of the vas deferens tubes, which are responsible for transporting sperm to the prostate for ejaculation. The testes will continue to produce sperm, but it will be absorbed back into the body soon after production and will not be present in semen. However, it can take up to three months post-surgery before the patient is completely sterile. This is due to sperm lingering within the various tubes of the penile anatomy and may require upwards of twenty ejaculations to ensure complete sterility.
The vasectomy operation is an out-patient procedure and can be performed right in the surgeon‘s office. The duration of the surgery is normally between 20 and 30 minutes and requires only local anesthesia.
Side Effects of a Vasectomy
A vasectomy has very few side effects. Some patients may experience the following side effects following a vasectomy:
- Sore and swollen scrotum
- Lower abdominal discomfort
Most patients experience minimal discomfort that can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication.
Complications of a Vasectomy
There is always a risk for infection and bleeding when an incision is made, but the small size of the cut needed for a vasectomy ensures minimal risk. It is possible for sperm to leak into the tissue of the scrotum after surgery. These are usually attacked by the patient‘s own immune system and may cause a small lump called a sperm granuloma. This usually clears up on its own, but in rare cases may need to be surgically removed. The libido of most men is unaffected by surgery.
Recovery from a Vasectomy
If employed at a desk job, the patient can usually return to work within one or two days after the vasectomy procedure. Manual labor jobs require a a longer period of time before the patient returns to his job.
Sexual activity can be resumed within about a week, but it is important to note that the vasectomy is not effective immediately, and if necessary, other means of birth control should be used temporarily. A follow-up sperm count test is recommended after two months to ensure sterility, as well as a second testing one month afterwards for complete confirmation. Patients should not assume that their vasectomy is effective until the semen analysis indicates the absence of sperm.
Vasectomy FAQs:
Will a Vasectomy Hurt?
Once your vasectomy procedure is completed, you can expect minimal pain that usually only lasts for two weeks.
Will a Vasectomy Affect My Testosterone Levels?
The only thing that a vasectomy affects is your sperm cells from appearing in your semen. After a vasectomy, your testicles will still be able to make testosterone normally.
Are Vasectomies Reversible?
If you and your partner are unsure about the future of having more children, it’s best to wait to get a vasectomy, as the reversal process isn’t always successful. Vasectomy reversal procedures do exist, and they aim to try to restore the tubing that carries the sperm. However, it’s extremely hard and can be expensive to try to reverse the process just to have it possibly not work.
Can a Vasectomy Affect My Sex Drive?
The short answer is no; a vasectomy won’t affect your sex drive. After this procedure, you can expect your sex drive and the ability to have erections and orgasms to remain the same.
Is it Possible to Still Get Someone Pregnant After a Vasectomy?
While a vasectomy is one of the most effective forms of “birth control,” there is always a chance that you can still get someone pregnant. However, the chances are extremely low. You have a 1 in 2,000 chance of causing a pregnancy after a vasectomy.
Who Can Get a Vasectomy?
Any man who is 18 and older and positive they don’t want any more children can have a vasectomy. If you currently suffer from an STD, you may have to delay your vasectomy until it is controlled.
If you are sure you don’t want any more children and are interested in getting a vasectomy, call Greater Hartford Urology Group at 860-522-2251 to be scheduled for a consultation with one of our experienced and compassionate Urologists.
