Vasectomy is a simple, safe, effective, and permanent male contraception method
Immediate risks of undergoing a vasectomy involve the following:
- Bleeding or blood clot inside the scrotum
- Blood in the semen
- Bruising of the scrotum
- Infection of the surgery site
- Mild pain or discomfort
- Swelling
Complications that may occur at a later stage include:
- Chronic pain in 1-2% of those who have surgery
- Fluid buildup in the testicles
- Sperm granuloma (inflammation due to leaking sperm)
- Spermatocele (an abnormal cyst in the tube that collects sperms)
- Hydrocele (a fluid-filled sac surrounding the testicles causing swelling in the scrotum)
- No protection from sexually transmitted diseases
Vasectomy myths: Men may have some fears regarding a vasectomy, although these risks are unfounded:
- Affects sexual performance
- Permanently damages sex organs
- Increases the risk of certain cancers
- Increases the risk of heart diseases
- Causes severe pain
These fears are baseless, and there’s no scientific evidence that supports these fears.
What is a vasectomy?
Vasectomy is a simple, safe, effective, and permanent male contraception method that cuts off the supply of sperm to the semen. It is carried out by cutting and sealing the tubes that carry sperm (vas deferens). Due to the position of male reproductive organs, this surgery is straightforward. More than 500,000 men prefer to have vasectomies every year in the United States. After the vasectomy, ejection and climaxes are all normal. The only difference is that your semen will no longer contain sperms.
What are the advantages of having a vasectomy?
Vasectomy is 99% effective in preventing pregnancies. It offers many advantages as a birth control option. Vasectomy is a one-time procedure, which is a reliable form of contraception. Unlike female tubal ligation, a vasectomy provides the following advantages:
- Simple procedure
- More effective
- Can be performed in an outpatient setting
- Have fewer complications
- Less expensive
- No birth control options required
- Recovery is faster
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Testosterone is a chemical found only in men.
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How do I prepare for a vasectomy?
Before undergoing a vasectomy, the physician conducts a physical examination. You must inform your physician if you have any of the below:
- History of excessive bleeding or blood disorders
- Allergy to local anesthetics
- Skin disease involving the scrotum
- Regular use of aspirin
- History of an injury or a surgery to the scrotum or groin
- History of repeated genital or urinary tract infections
You must shave off your hair over the scrotum and nearby area with a clean razor meant for single use.
Your physician may ask you to sign a consent form before undergoing the surgery.
Stop taking blood thinners such as Advil (ibuprofen), Coumadin (warfarin), Plavix (clopidogrel), and Ticlid (ticlopidine) seven days before the surgery.
How is the vasectomy procedure done?
Vasectomies are of two types: Incision vasectomy and the no-scalpel vasectomy. The surgeon creates an opening either by an incision or a puncture in the upper part of the scrotum. Next, the physician locates the vas deferens and pulls it through the opening. The withdrawn part is cut and sealed by tying it using heat (cauterizing), surgical clips, or a combination of methods. The physician then transfers the ends of vas deferens into the scrotum and closes the opening.
What to expect after a vasectomy?
Mild discomfort, pain, bruising, and swelling are common after a vasectomy, which resolves after a few days.
You may have a bandage around the scrotum and need to wear tight-fitting underwear for at least 48 hours after a vasectomy. The bandage should be changed if soiled.
Apply ice packs to the scrotum for the first two days.
You can start showering the day after a vasectomy. Sometimes, the skin may separate due to tissue fluid, oozing blood, or body fluids.
Limit heavy work or sexual activity for a week after surgery.