Vasectomy
Everything You Need to Know
Vasectomy is a highly effective method of male contraception that has been shown to be extremely cost-effective. A man and his spouse should carefully consider their options before deciding about a vasectomy. It’s important that every couple to be fully informed and aware. A vasectomy should be considered permanent and may not be able to be reversed later.
- Vasectomy is 99.8% effective. Used properly, condoms can be 98% effective. You decide.
- Vasectomy results are not immediate; it may be weeks before sterility is complete.
- Vasectomy does not change your ability to have an erection or enjoy sex.
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The Vasectomy Surgery
A vasectomy is performed by cutting the vas deferens, the small tube that carries sperm from the man’s testicles to become part of his semen. This is done under local anaesthesia with or without sedation in an outpatient setting. Usually, the procedure is well tolerated by the patient. It involves making a 1.5cm incision, through which the Vas deferens are delivered, divided and ligated. A small portion of the Vas will also be sent for Histopathology examination for confirmation.
After Vasectomy Surgery
You will be going home on the same day with simple Analgesia and Antibiotics.
You can have a shower the next day.
Q: Does Vasectomy make me sterile immediately after surgery?
A: No, any vasectomy does not make you sterile right away, and you’ll want to continue using some other means to guard against pregnancy until your doctor tells you otherwise. Immediately after a vasectomy, active sperm remain in the semen for a period of time. It may take 20 to 25 ejaculations and several weeks before your semen is free of sperm. Your local doctor will test the semen, perhaps several times over several weeks, and let you know when you can safely consider the vasectomy to be complete. This may be as long as 3-6 months.
Can I Get Back to Work and Normal Activities After Vasectomy?
You will be able to go back to work and normal activities the next day.
Vasectomy Risks and Complications
Vasectomy is considered among the safest procedures and the majority of complications, if any, are usually minor and easily treated. These include a chance of infection, bleeding or transient bruising, temporary swelling or fluid accumulation.
Following the procedure, some men experience pain, often as a dull ache, caused by pressure on the miniature tubes of the epididymis. This is usually treated successfully with medication, but the removal of the epididymis is sometimes recommended.
Short-term failure of vasectomy is usually defined as the presence of sperm in the ejaculate at 3-6 months or after 25 ejaculates following the procedure.
There are always some sperm present in the initial postvasectomy ejaculates, although after 4 weeks the number and quality in the vast majority of men is usually inadequate to achieve fertilization.
Unfortunately, in practice, a significant number of men fail to provide postvasectomy ejaculates for examination, and the failures are only identified only after an unexpected pregnancy.
Late failure can occur at any time after vasectomy and is thought to be due to recanalization of the vas deferens. In a prospective study, late failures that resulted in pregnancy were 9 failures in more than 30,000 vasectomies.
10 Reason To Get a Vasectomy
- Contraceptive choice: Vasectomy is a highly effective form of permanent contraception, providing long-term reproductive control for individuals or couples who do not desire future pregnancies.
- Shared responsibility: Some couples choose vasectomy as a means to share the responsibility of contraception, allowing their partner to avoid hormonal birth control methods or invasive procedures like tubal ligation.
- Simplicity and convenience: Once the vasectomy procedure is complete and the recovery period has passed, individuals can enjoy the simplicity and convenience of not having to worry about other contraceptive methods on a regular basis.
- Cost-effectiveness: In the long run, vasectomy can be a cost-effective choice compared to the ongoing expenses associated with other contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills, condoms, or intrauterine devices.
- Permanent solution: For individuals or couples who are certain they do not want any or any more children, vasectomy offers a permanent solution, eliminating the need for future contraceptive decision-making.
- Non-invasive procedure: Vasectomy is a relatively straightforward outpatient procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia. It involves a small incision and is generally associated with minimal discomfort and a quick recovery time.
- Low failure rate: Vasectomy has a very low failure rate, making it one of the most reliable contraceptive methods available. After the required follow-up period to confirm sterility, individuals can have peace of mind regarding their fertility.
- Quick recovery: The recovery period after a vasectomy is typically short, with most individuals returning to their normal activities within a few days. This quick turnaround time allows individuals to resume their daily routine relatively soon after the procedure.
- Reduced risk of certain health issues: Vasectomy has been associated with a lower risk of certain health conditions, such as prostate cancer. While the evidence is not definitive, some studies suggest a potential link between vasectomy and reduced risk.
- Personal or medical reasons: Some individuals may have personal or medical reasons for choosing vasectomy. This could include concerns about passing on hereditary conditions or medical conditions that make other forms of contraception less suitable.
When contemplating a vasectomy, it is important to consider various factors and understand how it can impact your life. Here are some key aspects to think about:
Firstly, recognize that a vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception. Make sure you are certain about not wanting future children and explore alternative options like sperm banking if preserving fertility is a concern. Consider the emotional implications and have open discussions with your partner, if applicable. Ensure that both partners are aligned in their desires and future plans regarding parenthood. Understand that while vasectomy reversal is possible, it is a more complex procedure with varying success rates. Reversal may not guarantee restored fertility, so view a vasectomy as a long-term decision. Seek professional counselling and medical advice from a healthcare provider or urologist who can address your concerns, provide detailed information about the procedure, and offer personalized guidance.
Recognize that a vasectomy does not affect sexual function or libido. It solely prevents sperm from reaching semen. There should be no significant impact on sexual pleasure or performance. Discuss the benefits of shared responsibility with your partner. A vasectomy can provide peace of mind, eliminate the need for other contraceptive methods, and strengthen the bond between partners. Understand that a vasectomy does not necessitate significant lifestyle changes. However, it offers freedom from ongoing contraceptive worries, allowing for greater intimacy and spontaneity in relationships. Consider the emotional well-being associated with a vasectomy. It can provide a sense of security, relieve anxiety about unintended pregnancies, and allow you to focus on other aspects of your life and relationships. Evaluate the long-term financial benefits of a vasectomy. By eliminating the need for other contraceptive methods, it can lead to significant cost savings over time.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo a vasectomy should be driven by personal choice and satisfaction. It empowers individuals and couples to take control of their reproductive future and can bring a greater sense of freedom and fulfilment. Remember to make the decision after careful consideration, consultation with healthcare professionals, and open communication with your partner. Assess the potential impact on your life and the benefits it may bring in terms of reproductive control, shared responsibility, emotional well-being, and financial savings.