A vasectomy is a surgical procedure in which the vas deferens of each testicle is cut and sealed so as to prevent sperm from being added to the seminal fluid emanating from the seminal vesciles.http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387
The procedure is classified as a permanent form of birth control, although it can take a period of time, occasional measured in months, for all of the remaining sperm to be ejaculated or reabsorbed by the male. During this time frame, couples must still employ another method of birth control to avoid unwanted pregnancy. Semen samples are taken regularly following the procedure to determine when a zero sperm count has been attained.http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387
Vasectomy Procedure
Most vasectomies are done as an outpatient surgery. The procedure has a duration of 20 to 30 minutes and is done under local anesthesia.http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387 The surgery is routinely performed by urologists, general surgeons and family doctors.
The procedure normally involves shaving a portion of the scrotum and cleaning it with an antiseptic. The doctor locates the vas deferens tactically and then injects a local anesthetic to the area.http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387 Topical anesthetic is sometimes applied prior to the local anesthesia injection to avoid initial discomfort..
Once the anesthetic has taken affect, a small incision is made on the scrotum and the vas deferens are cut in two locations so as to create a physical gap. The two ends are sealed or stitched. The use of electric cauterization is employed by some doctors to seal both ends of the cut vas deferens with heat.http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387
Once the vas deferens has been cut and sealed, the incision on the scrotum is closed with self-absorbing stitches.http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387
Following the procedure, numbness may remain in the scrotal area for up to three hours. The use of a jockstrap is sometimes recommended to ease discomfort in the first 48 hours following the procedure.http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387
Minor post-operatory swelling is normal. In most cases the individual that underwent the procedure can return to work in 2 to 3 days.http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387
The Vasectomy Process
In this video, Dr. David R. Talley, a urologist with a practice in San Antonio, TX, explains the process that men will face when deciding on a vasectomy. From the initial consultation, to the importance of deciding whether or not the procedure is right for you, through an explanation in laymen terms of the actual sedation and surgical procedure involved, the vasectomy process is outlined.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking any decisions regarding a vasectomy..
References
Fast Facts
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Effectiveness
99.85% as a form of permanent birth control
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Procedure Type
Performed as an outpatient surgical procedure
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Procedure Duration
20 to 30 minutes
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Anesthesia
Localized anesthetic
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Recovery Time
1-3 days to return to normal work activty
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Follow-up
Sperm tests required after the procedure to determine when a zero sperm count is achieved
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Anesthesia
Localized anesthetic
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Recovery Time
2-3 days to return to normal work duties
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Follow-Up
Semen tests are taken after the procedure to determine when a zero sperm count is achieved
