Vasectomy: an Option for Sterility
For many men, a vasectomy is an option for birth control that is minimally invasive, low risk, and highly effective. A vasectomy procedure may be ideal for men who want permanent contraception and do not want any more children. It doesn’t reduce ejaculatory volume, but it eliminates sperm in semen, which prevents pregnancy. Thanks to advances in the study of urology, vasectomies have become less daunting, and an outpatient vasectomy procedure only takes 20-30 minutes to complete while the patient is under local anesthesia.
Vasectomy Procedure
No incisions are involved during a vasectomy, which reduces the possibility of bleeding and complication after the procedure. The doctor will make a small puncture in the scrotal sac, which is where the vas deferens is channeled through. The doctor will disconnect the tubes within the vas deferens, which is where sperm flows to the ejaculatory ducts. The doctor will then either cauterize, cut, or tie the tubes. The puncture is then stitched and the vasectomy procedure is complete.
After a Vasectomy
The recovery time after a vasectomy is often minimal. After the procedure, it is recommended that the patient lie on their back and rest for the remainder of the day. Bruising, tenderness, and swelling may occur at the puncture site. To lessen discomfort, the patient should wear supportive undergarments such as a jockstrap. Patients can return to work one to two days after the vasectomy, and should avoid heavy lifting during the week following the procedure. Once the patient feels healthy enough, which usually takes three to seven days, sexual activity can recommence.
While a vasectomy is a quick procedure and 99.85% effective, its end result is not immediate. For the patient to be sterile, it can take a few months for the rest of the sperm to be either ejaculated or reabsorbed. Sterility is achieved once the patient receives a zero sperm count from a sample test.
Vasectomy Reversals
Although a vasectomy should be treated as a permanent form of contraceptive, there are ways to reverse the procedure. A vasectomy reversal is an outpatient procedure that restores the flow of sperm through the vas deferens. Note that a reversal is more likely to be successful if performed in the first 10-15 years after the original procedure is completed.
There are two methods of vasectomy reversals:
- Vasovasostomy – This is the typical vasectomy reversal method. An incision is made and fluid is expelled from the vas deferens. If there isn’t an evident blockage, the procedure can continue. Performed under a microscope, the once-disconnected ends of the vas deferens are then reconnected to reestablish the flow of sperm.
- Vasoepididymostomy – This procedure is performed if the doctor discovers a blockage in the vas deferens during a vasovasostomy. The blockage can be caused by inflammation, scarring, or an epididymal obstruction. During a vasoepididymostomy, the lumen of the vas deferens is connected above the blockage in the epididymis. The connection is made with circularly-placed sutures.
Urologists at Academic Urology & Urogynecology of Arizona
The experienced specialists at our practice provide care for a variety of men’s urology concerns and procedures, including vasectomies and vasectomy reversals. From diagnosis to treatment, AUUA treats every patient individually, making sure he is kept informed every step of the way. Call us today to schedule an appointment at one of our seven convenient locations.
