Vasectomies are one of the most popular methods of sterilization for men. And for good reason - they are a simple outpatient procedure, often done right in the doctor's clinic, with minimal downtime. For a man who know he does not want more children, a vasectomy offers a form of birth control with a high track record of effectiveness. It is also a very safe procedure.
How Does a Vasectomy Work?
The procedure works by permanently disrupting the flow of sperm from the testicle to the ejaculatory ducts within the prostate gland. With time, the production of sperm within the testicles gradually slows down and is reabsorbed by the body.
A man who has a vasectomy will still maintain his ability to climax and will still ejaculate. The main difference is that there will be no sperm in the semen.
In addition, a vasectomy will not impact the testicle's ability to continue to produce testosterone.
No Scalpel Vasectomy?
As mentioned, a vasectomy is typically performed in a doctor's office and does not require you to "go to sleep" for the procedure. A vasectomy should always be performed by a board certified urologist. There is a type of vasectomy procedure called the "no scalpel vasectomy," which offers advantages over a traditional vasectomy.
A traditional vasectomy requires the surgeon to make two small cuts in the upper part of the scrotum, under the penis. The doctor then cuts, ties or blocks the vas deferens. This method requires stitches.
With the "no scalpel" vasectomy method, the entire procedure can usually be done through a single opening measuring less than 1 cm or a quarter of an inch. Since the opening is relatively small, a stitch is not usually needed. This results in a low-pain vasectomy and typically faster recovery
To reduce the discomfort associated with a vasectomy, a special anesthetic injector is used that delivers the local anesthetic without a needle. The sensation of getting struck by a rubber band is commonly described by most of our patients. The discomfort lasts only for a few seconds before the numbness takes effect.
What is Recovery from a Vasectomy Like?
Many men have the vasectomy procedure on a Friday and return to work on Monday. After a vasectomy, it is normal for a man will be sore for a few days. At least one full day of rest is recommended. A complete recovery can be expected within a week.
After a vasectomy:
Avoid any significantly strenuous activity for a few days.
Avoid any heavy lifting.
We also advise patients to wear a scrotal supporter for a few days immediately after the procedure.
Refrain from sexual activity for at least two weeks.
What are the Risks & Benefits of a Vasectomy?
In very rare cases, a man's tubes, called the vas deferens, can rejoin and pregnancy can occur.
As mentioned, a vasectomy is a very safe procedure. Complications aren't common, but if they happen, they can include:
Swelling and/or bruising
Inflammation
Infection
The biggest benefit for having a vasectomy is that it is highly effective at preventing pregnancy. Vasectomies are hard - and sometimes impossible - to reverse, so a man should be certain about his decision to have one. Some patients will bank their sperm before they undergo a vasectomy.
Again, it's important to note that a vasectomy will not affect a man's testosterone level, climaxes, sex drive or any other aspect of his sex life.
If you are considering a vasectomy, you may want to explore the "no scalpel" vasectomy option, which will provide for a quicker recovery and less downtime.
About Dr. Howard Tay, MD, Board Certified Urologist
Dr. Howard Tay is a board certified urologist in Arizona certified by the American Board of Urology. He is an active member in the American Urological Association. He has practiced urology in Arizona since 1996.
Dr. Tay is recognized as a leading Arizona urologists, including several Phoenix Magazine "Top Doc" awards for urology.
He is an active member in advancing urology in the state of Arizona and serves on several hospital committees as is past Department Chair of Surgery at Banner Thunderbird Hospital.
In addition to his practice, he is an educator training medical student and physician assistants in urology at Midwestern University, Northern Arizona University and the University of Arizona Medical School-Phoenix Campus.
Dr. Tay and his wife Christina met while still in college at UC Berkeley and have been together through Dr. Tay's medical school and residency. They have two children, Kimberly and Kevin. Kimberly is a graduate of UofA and is currently completing medical school and applying for residencies in urology. Kevin is also a UofA graduate is currently in medical school.
In his spare time, Dr. Tay enjoys tennis, racquet ball and golf as well as target shooting, restoring classic cars and home improvement projects. He and Christina love to travel now that they are "empty nesters."
