Vasectomy Basics
Of course, your doctor at the Greater Hartford Urology Group will go over every step of the procedure with you and can answer any questions or concerns you have. Here are a few basic facts about vasectomies in the meantime:
- What is involved in a vasectomy? A vasectomy cuts and seals off the tubes that carry sperm. The procedure typically takes less than half an hour and can be performed at your doctor’s office. It only requires local anesthesia, and there is a very low risk of complications or side effects.
- What does a vasectomy do? Vasectomies are very effective at preventing pregnancy – your body will still make sperm, but it is absorbed back into the body instead of becoming a part of semen. You won’t have to worry about birth control anymore, although a vasectomy won’t protect you against sexually transmitted diseases. Vasectomies are also cheaper and less invasive than tubal ligation (having the “tubes tied”), the surgery available to women for permanent birth control.
- Is a vasectomy reversible? It is possible to reverse a vasectomy, but there is no guarantee this will work. Vasectomy reversal can be complicated, expensive, and ineffective.
- Will a vasectomy affect my sex life? No, having a vasectomy doesn’t affect your sex drive or your sexual performance. Some men have said that their sexual satisfaction increased after they got a vasectomy.
- Is a vasectomy effective right away? You should know that it can take a few months for your body to get rid of any lingering sperm. It can take about 3 months for this to happen, so you might want to use a backup birth control.
Have you decided you are done having children? A vasectomy is a great solution! Contact the Greater Hartford Urology Group, with offices in Hartford, Enfield, and Glastonbury, today. Call 860-522-2251 for an appointment!
