Vasectomy

What is Vasectomy? 

Vasectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting and blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. By interrupting the flow of sperm, vasectomy prevents pregnancy.

How is Vasectomy Performed? 

During a vasectomy procedure:

• Anaesthesia: Vasectomy can be performed under local or general anaesthesia

• Accessing the Vas Deferens: A small incision or puncture is made in the scrotum to expose the vas deferens. It may involve a single incision or two small incisions.

• Cutting or Blocking the Vas Deferens: The vas deferens is cut, and a small section is removed or sealed off using ties, or cauterisation. This prevents sperm from mixing with semen during ejaculation.

• Closure: The incision is closed using dissolvable stitches or adhesive strips.

What to Expect before Vasectomy:

• Counselling: Your healthcare provider will discuss the procedure, its permanence, and alternative contraception options. This is an opportunity to address any questions or concerns you may have.

• Consent: You will be required to provide informed consent, indicating your understanding of the procedure and your decision to proceed.

• Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or allergies you have. You may be advised to stop taking blood-thinning medications before the procedure.

• Arrangements: Plan for a brief recovery period, during which you may need to limit physical activities. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

What to Expect after Vasectomy:

• Recovery: You may experience some discomfort, swelling, bruising, or mild pain in the scrotal area. Applying ice packs and wearing supportive underwear can help alleviate these symptoms.

• Follow-up: Attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by your healthcare provider. They will check your healing progress and may request semen samples to confirm the absence of sperm.

• Contraception Transition: Remember, vasectomy is not immediately effective in preventing pregnancy. Continue using alternative contraception methods until your healthcare provider confirms the absence of sperm in your ejaculate.

• Sexual Activity: Wait until you are fully healed before resuming sexual activity. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions based on your individual circumstances.

Benefits and Considerations: 

Vasectomy offers several benefits as a form of contraception:

• Permanent contraception: Vasectomy is a highly effective, permanent method of contraception.

• Reversibility: While vasectomy is considered permanent, some individuals may opt for vasectomy reversal in the future. However, reversal success rates vary.

It is important to carefully consider your decision, as vasectomy should be regarded as irreversible. Ensure you have discussed all aspects with your healthcare provider and your partner, if applicable.

Possible Risks and Complications: 

Vasectomy is generally a safe procedure, but like any surgical intervention, there are potential risks and complications:

• Temporary discomfort, bruising, or swelling

• Infection at the surgical site

• Hematoma (blood clot) in the scrotum

• Granuloma (small, usually harmless lump) at the site of the vas deferens

• Rarely, long-term pain or discomfort (chronic epididymitis)

If you experience severe pain, persistent swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection, contact your surgeon.