Vasectomy 

What is Vasectomy  

A vasectomy is a form of permanent contraception that prevents sperm from being released in semen. It involves cutting or blocking the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. A vasectomy does not affect testosterone levels, erections, or the ability to ejaculate.  

How does a vasectomy work? 

During a vasectomy, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles are cut, sealed or blocked. Sperm can no longer travel into the semen, so pregnancy cannot occur through sexual intercourse once the procedure has been confirmed to be successful. 

1. It stops sperm from reaching the semen. 

2. You can still produce sperm after a vasectomy. 

3. Ejaculation and orgasm are mostly unaffected. 

4. Testosterone production continues. 

5. It is not effective against sexually transmitted infections. 

What happens during a vasectomy? 

1. Preparation: Your doctor will discuss the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives with you. 

2. Local anaesthetic: The area is numbed so you should not feel pain during the procedure. 

3. Small opening: The doctor makes a little cut or hole in the scrotum. 

4. Tubes are treated: The sperm tubes are cut, sealed, or blocked. 

5. Wound closure: The tiny opening is either closed or left to heal, depending on the procedure. 

6. Recovery tips:  Your doctor will explain how to care for the area and when you can return to normal activities. 

7. Semen testing: A semen test is needed after the procedure to confirm that no sperm remain before relying on the vasectomy for contraception.  

Is a vasectomy permanent? 

Yes. A vasectomy should be considered permanent because reversal is difficult and is not always successful. You should only get a vasectomy if you are certain you do not want to have children in the future. 

Vasectomy vs tubal ligation

How successful is vasectomy? 

Vasectomy is a highly efficient type of contraception. Fewer than 1 in 1,000 partners become pregnant in the first year after sexual activity with someone who has had a vasectomy. However, it does not work immediately because sperm may remain in the reproductive tract for a while after the procedure.  You should continue to use contraception until your doctor confirms that your semen test shows the vasectomy has been successful. 

Recovery after a vasectomy 

After a vasectomy: 

1. Rest for the first few days. 

2. Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel to reduce swelling. 

3. Wear supportive undergarments if advised. 

4. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for the period recommended by your doctor. 

5. You may have moderate discomfort, swelling, or bruising for a few days. 

6. Follow your doctor’s advice about returning to sexual activity. 

7. Continue to use contraception until your semen test confirms that the procedure worked. 

8. Seek medical attention if you have pain, swelling, fever, discharge, or other troubling symptoms. 

Things to know before having a vasectomy 

1. A vasectomy should be considered permanent. 

2. Reversal is difficult and is not always successful. 

3. It does not protect against STIs. 

4. It does not work immediately. 

5. You need a follow-up semen test. 

6. You should continue using a contraception method until your doctor confirms that the procedure has been successful. 

7. Discuss your medical history and any concerns with your doctor before the procedure. 

8. Make sure you understand the possible risks and complications. 

9. Consider whether permanent contraception is right for you before making the decision to have vasectomy. 

References links:  
 
Healthdirect – Reference link 
 
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