Vasectomy FAQ
If this is your first rodeo, read more about vasectomies below.
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PLEASE NOTE: This site is intended to provide our users with educational information only. It is not intended as medical advice to any specific person. If you have any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your health, please consult your personal physician. The information will hopefully increase your knowledge about your health and our services.
What is a vasectomy?
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A vasectomy is a simple surgery done by a licensed and trained doctor, typically a urologist.
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Vas deferens are small tubes in your scrotum that carry sperm. During the procedure, these tubes are cut off so sperm can’t leave your body.
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There are two types of vasectomies: the incision method, and the no-scalpel (no-cut) method.
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Vasectomies are meant to be permanent, so please be 100% certain you do not want to cause pregnancies after receiving one.
How effective
is a vasectomy?
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A vasectomy is also called male sterilization because it is almost 100% effective. It is the most effective method of pregnancy prevention for any one with sperm, after waiting the prescribed among of time after the procedure.
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Vasectomies are effective because it is done by a medical provider. Patients opting for this procedure don’t have to remember using another form once the lab confirms that there is no sperm in your semen.
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Your doctor will ask you to send in a semen sample after the procedure. Many suggest waiting to send this in after 20-35 ejaculations, or 8-16 weeks. If you are trying to prevent pregnancy, do not have unprotected sex until the semen analysis shows no sperm in your ejaculate.
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In extremely rare cases (1 in 10,000 by some estimates), the cut ends of your vas deferens could grow back.
Do Vasectomies protect you from STDs?
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Definitely not!! Please continue to use condoms to lower your chances of contracting or spreading STDs/STIs.
Does getting a vasectomy hurt?
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Local anesthesia is used, and most patients report no pain during the procedure. Some have discomfort when receiving a shot.
How will I feel after my vasectomy?
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You may have mild discomfort. Most providers suggest using ice on your genitals for the first day or two to help with swelling. You can take over-the-counter pain relief as needed.
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You will be advised to avoid exercise or hard physical work for about a week.
What else can I expect after my vasectomy?
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Your semen will look the same, but you cannot cause pregnancies.
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Some report a higher sex drive.
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There are no known hormonal side-effects.
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Wear a condom to prevent the transmission of STDs.
Can a vasectomy be reversed?
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Beware! There are many conflicting thoughts on this and much misinformation.
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Vasectomies are meant to be permanent, but in some cases, a reversal may be successful. The rate of successful reversals varies depending on provider, and there are absolutely NO guarantees that it will work. Not only that, it is a very expensive procedure.