In this procedure, vas deferens, the tube that carries the sperm, is disconnected and ligated. It is a safe, effective and a permanent form of contraception. Despite reversal techniques being available, this procedure is performed with intention of permanent contraception.
Vasectomy does not affect the ejaculation, erectile function or impair ability to have an orgasm. It is also important to note that vasectomy does not protect against STD’s. Following vasectomy, patients should continue contraception until the semen analysis confirms absence of viable sperms.
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure is performed either under local or general anaesthesia depending on the preference of the patient. Vasectomy is performed through two very small incisions on the side of the scrotum. Patients can often go home on the same day and recovery is often short. The sutures used to close the wound are absorbable and do not need to be removed.
What are the complications of vasectomy?
Overall the risks of complications following vasectomy is very low.
The early potential complications include bleeding, swelling and infection. Some patients may experience pain or fullness in the testes which often settles down with analgesia and time. The late complications include development of spermatocele and chronic pain which are rare and could occur in approximately 1% of patients.
What happens after surgery?
Following vasectomy, patients are not immediately sterile and should continue contraception until the remaining sperms are flushed out and semen analysis confirms absence of sperms. We advise our patients to have 2 x semen analysis tests, 1 week apart at 3 months, or 25 ejaculations after vasectomy.