What is a vasectomy?
A vasectomy (also called sterilisation) is a surgical procedure performed on men to achieve sterilisation, which means becoming infertile. During a vasectomy, the two vas deferens tubes that transport sperm from the testicles to the penis are cut. This prevents sperm from containing the necessary cells for fertilisation.
It is important to note that a vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception and is intended as a permanent decision. Although it is reversible in some cases via a Vaso-vasostomy (a procedure to reconnect the cut ends of the vas deferens), reversibility is not guaranteed.
A vasectomy is considered a safe and effective form of contraception for men who are certain they do not wish to have any more biological children.
Does a vasectomy affect me as a man?
Infertility The primary aim of a vasectomy is to cause infertility. After the procedure, the semen released from the penis no longer contains sperm, making it impossible to get a woman pregnant.
No change in sexual function: A vasectomy does not affect libido, erection or ejaculation. The man will still experience sexual activity as before.
No change in hormone production: Because a vasectomy cuts the vas deferens and does not affect the testicles, it does not impact hormone production, such as testosterone. Hormone levels therefore remain normal.
No effect on orgasm A vasectomy does not directly affect orgasm. The only change is that the semen no longer contains sperm.
Vasectomy: How does the procedure work?
Important: If you are considering a vasectomy, you must first book a consultation with a urologist to discuss everything. You can make an appointment online for a consultation with the urologist at Mediport Medical Centre Cadix, of tel 033187070.
A vasectomy takes approximately 20-30 minutes in total. You can go home immediately after the procedure. As a local anaesthetic is used, you must not drive yourself afterwards. Due to the anaesthetic, you may have a temporary reduced sensation at the site of the procedure. For this reason, it is advised not to drive yourself after the procedure.
Normally, sexual intercourse is possible again after two weeks. However, you are not immediately infertile after the procedure. There may still be viable sperm cells present in the seminal vesicles and the prostate from before the procedure. Therefore, it is advisable to continue using contraceptives until the check-up (after three months), until it is found that your sperm no longer contains viable sperm cells.
Vasectomy Potential risks and complications:
Vasectomy remains a very safe form of contraception, despite a very small chance of the vas deferens ends rejoining (recanalisation) in approximately 3 in 1000 patients, rendering the patient fertile again. This recanalisation can even occur if the semen check after the procedure showed no sperm.
After the procedure, your scrotum may be tender, painful, and/or discoloured. Some men experience a fluctuating, heavy, and/or painful sensation in their testicles for months, without any signs of inflammation or swelling.
There is also a small chance of inflammation after the procedure, which can manifest as swelling, redness, a warm sensation, and increasing pain in the scrotum. In this case, it is advisable to contact your doctor.
How much pain can I expect from a vasectomy?
The level of pain experienced during a vasectomy under local anaesthetic can vary from person to person. Generally, it is believed that most men will only feel mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure.
During the procedure, a local anaesthetic is injected directly into the scrotum to numb the area. This means you might feel some pressure, tugging, or mild discomfort during the procedure, but you should not experience any sharp pain. The anaesthetic effect ensures that the vas deferens become numb, making the operation more comfortable.
It is important to communicate with the doctor during the procedure. If you feel discomfort, the doctor can administer additional anaesthetic if necessary. The most painful part of the entire procedure is the administration of the anaesthetic. However, this pain is short-lived.