Why is this procedure done?
A vasectomy is a permanent type of birth control for men. After this surgery, a man cannot get a woman pregnant. Sperm are made in the testes. The testes are small round organs. The testes are located in the skin sac that hangs between a mans legs. Sperm are stored in a small organ on top of the testes. The organ is called the epididymis. The sperm travel from there through small tubes called the vas deferens when a man ejaculates. The fluid a man ejaculates is called semen. ‚
During a vasectomy, these small tubes are cut or blocked. After this procedure, a man's semen will not contain any sperm. ‚
A vasectomy is a permanent form of birth control. You should be 100% sure before you undergo this procedure. You and your partner should have talked about your decision to not have any more children. Vasectomy reversal is available, but does not always work. ‚
A vasectomy does not protect you from sexually-transmitted diseases. You will still need to wear a condom to protect yourself and your partner against these infections. ‚
What will the results be?
After a successful vasectomy, your semen will not contain sperm. You will not be able to make a woman pregnant. Having no sperm in your semen is called a zero sperm count. Not being able to get a woman pregnant is also called being sterile. Becoming sterile may take up to 2 months after the procedure. During this time, you will need to use some other means of birth control. You will need to have your sperm count checked after the surgery. Double checking will make sure you have a zero sperm count. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about: ‚
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some examples are Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor your drugs.
- If you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home. ‚
Be sure to bring or wear comfortable, close-fitting underwear. ‚
What happens during the procedure?
- This procedure is most often done in the doctors office. You will lie on a table or recline in a chair.
- The staff will shave and clean your scrotum with a special soap. The doctor will inject a numbing medicine in your scrotum. You will be awake, but not feel any pain.
- Your doctor will either make a small cut or a small hole on one side of your scrotum. The doctor will find the vas deferens and cut, tie, or put a metal clip on the vas deferens. The site is closed and a bandage is applied. The procedure is repeated on the other side of your scrotum since there are two vas deferens.
- This procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- The staff will watch you closely. The doctor may give you drugs for pain.
- You may go home after the surgery or may have to stay in the hospital if needed.
What lifestyle changes are needed?
You may need to rest for a few days after the procedure. Avoid standing or walking too long. Avoid heavy lifting and hard exercise for up to 1 to 3 weeks. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Prevent infection
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Opening of surgical wound
Where can I learn more?
American Urological Association Foundation ‚
http://www.urologyhealth.org/urology/index.cfm?article=53 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚