The Procedure
What is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure that provides a highly effective, permanent method of birth control for men. During the procedure, the two tubes that carry sperm from the testicles (vas deferens) are cut and sealed, preventing sperm from mixing with semen during ejaculation. While your body continues to produce sperm, they are reabsorbed by the body, which is harmless.
Vasectomy Effectiveness
High Effectiveness: Vasectomy is the most effective form of birth control at 99% with a failure rate of less than 1 in 2,000.
Permanent: Once confirmed sterile won’t need additional contraception.
Outpatient Procedure: It's typically done in a doctor's office or outpatient setting under local anesthesia, lasting around 15-30 minutes.
Minimal Recovery Time: Most men can return to light activities and work within a few days, and resume sex in about a week.
Note: It takes 8–12 weeks and several ejaculations to clear remaining sperm. Use alternative contraception until you are confirmed sperm-free.
Is It Reversible?
Consider vasectomy permanent. While reversal is possible, it's expensive, not covered by insurance, and success isn't guaranteed. If you're uncertain about future children, explore other contraception options.
Potential Risks
Temporary Discomfort: Mild pain, swelling, and bruising in the scrotum are normal for a few days following the procedure.
Minor Complications: Rarely, complications like bleeding, infection, or a small lump (sperm granuloma) may occur.
Chronic Pain: A small percentage of men (1-2%) may experience persistent pain in the scrotum, known as post-vasectomy pain syndrome.
Ineffective Immediately: It takes time for the remaining sperm to clear out of your system, so you'll need to use other contraception methods until a semen analysis confirms you are sperm-free.
No STI Protection: Vasectomy does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
What to Expect
Before Your Procedure
Complete a virtual consultation to discuss the procedure and answer questions
Shave the front of your scrotum the night before
Arrange a ride home
During Your Procedure
Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, meaning you’ll be awake
A small incision or puncture is made to access the vas deferens
Cut and seal the vas deferens to prevent sperm flow
You’ll be ready to go home the same day
Typical procedure time is 15-30 minutes.
After Your Procedure
Limit physical activity for 48 hours
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort
Keep the area clean and dry
Refrain from sexual activity for at least one week, and use other contraception until sperm count tests clear
8-12 weeks later, complete a semen analysis to confirm the absence of sperm
Contact us immediately if you experience severe pain, swelling, fever, or signs of infection.
After Care Instructions
Following your vasectomy procedure, proper care is crucial for a smooth and comfortable recovery. Here's a breakdown of general post-op instructions:
Immediately after the procedure
Rest and Limit Activity: Take it easy and prioritize rest for the first 24-48 hours.
Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to the scrotum intermittently for the first 24-48 hours to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply for no more than 20 minutes at a time, protecting the skin with a thin cloth.
Supportive Underwear: Wear snug or tight-fitting underwear or an athletic supporter to provide scrotal support and minimize swelling.
Pain Relief: Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Motrin®) as recommended by your doctor to manage pain and discomfort.
Avoid Baths and Showers: Do not bathe or submerge in water for at least 48 hours to prevent infection. You may be able to shower after 24 hours, but keep the area dry.
Within the first week
Continue Supportive Underwear: Continue wearing supportive underwear for at least a few days to a week to aid healing and comfort.
Shower Carefully: You can typically shower after 24 hours but avoid scrubbing the surgical site directly.
Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and activities that involve straining or pressure on the groin area for about a week.
Avoid Sexual Activity: Do not engage in sexual activity or ejaculation for at least one week to allow proper healing and prevent complications like epididymitis.
Beyond the first week
Gradually Increase Activity: You can slowly return to your normal activities, including light exercise, as you feel comfortable. Listen to your body and scale back if you experience pain or discomfort.
Continue Contraception: It's crucial to continue using other forms of birth control until your doctor confirms the absence of sperm in your semen through a post-vasectomy semen analysis. This usually happens around 3 months after the procedure.
Follow-Up Semen Analysis: A follow-up semen analysis is essential to confirm the success of the vasectomy and ensure sterility. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the timing and method of collection.
When to contact your doctor
While complications are rare, it's important to be aware of the signs that may require medical attention. Contact your doctor if you experience:
Increasing or Severe Pain/Swelling: Pain that doesn't improve with medication or becomes significantly worse, or swelling that is increasing or very painful.
Signs of Infection: Increased redness, warmth, or tenderness around the incision site; pus or unusual discharge with a foul odor; fever; chills; or body aches.
Continuous Bleeding: Soaking through bandages with bright red blood.
Difficulty Urinating: Trouble passing urine.
A Lump in the Scrotum: A new or enlarging lump in the scrotum.
Signs of Blood Clot: Pain, redness, or swelling in your leg (calf, back of knee, thigh, or groin).
Disclaimer: These are general instructions. It is crucial to follow the specific post-operative care instructions provided by your urologist. Each individual's recovery is unique, and your doctor's guidance is essential for a safe and effective recovery.
Still Have Questions?
Request a virtual consultation to discuss the procedure, ask questions, and determine if vasectomy is right for you.