What happens during the procedure?
During a vasectomy, the connection between testicles and urethra is interrupted preventing sperm from entering the ejaculate, in essence making semen sterile.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes 15 to 30 minutes. Most men report very little pain or discomfort.
Post-vasectomy guidelines
After the vasectomy, you should stay off your feet for 2 to 3 days, even if you feel fine with no sensation of having had the surgery. Most post-vasectomy complications are caused by too much activity immediately after the procedure.
- Reduce activity for 2 to 3 days
- Take a mild anti-inflammatory pain reliever such as Advil or Tylenol
- Apply an ice pack to the groin area
- Rest with your feet elevated
- Take an antibiotic if we had prescribed one to prevent the possibility of an infection
- You can resume sexual activity with contraception in a week
Will vasectomy affect my sex drive?
A successful vasectomy has no effect on libido, the ability to get or maintain an erection, or any other aspect of sexual performance.
How effective is vasectomy?
Vasectomy is effective in more than 99% of the cases. However, there’s a waiting period before the effects take hold. The remaining sperm are cleared out of the semen after approximately 20 ejaculations, or in about 3 months.
At least 12 weeks after the surgery you should get a semen analysis. Most men will have a clear test and will no longer require protection.
Continue using other means of contraception until you receive test results confirming that your semen no longer contains any sperm.
How does vasectomy compare to other birth control methods?
In the first year after vasectomy, only 15 to 20 out of every 10,000 couples will experience a pregnancy.
