Vasectomy is a moderately common method of contraception for men seeking a permanent solution. This procedure is intended to prevent the release of sperm during ejaculation. The vasectomy process is surgical, and it involves severing the vas deferens and sealing it. The vas deferens is the tube that carries sperm from the testicles. Basically, the body will continue to produce sperm, but the spermatozoa will not be present in the ejaculate.

Efficacy of vasectomy

In general, vasectomy is considered to be more than 99% effective for contraception. The person who undergoes the procedure will be essentially sterile when the doctor confirms the success of the surgery. This means that the probability of fertilizing an egg after intercourse is close to zero. Vasectomy will not affect other sexual functions of the male body apart from the conveyance of the sperm. The testicles will continue to produce sperm, but these units will be broken down since they will not be in use and absorbed by the body.

Testosterone, the hormone associated with sexual drive and performance, will also be produced and released into the blood stream.

The procedure

The vasectomy procedure should be performed by a licensed medical practitioner, including a local GP, general surgeon or urologist. It is not an in-patient process and is usually completed in less than thirty minutes. The doctor will clean the area – the testicles and scrotum – with antiseptic. They will then locate the tubes and inject local anaesthetic to limit incidence of pain. Tiny incisions are made on the scrotum to allow access to the vas deferens. These tubes will be severed and each will be tied, stitched or cauterized. After this, the scrotum will be sealed with dissolving stitches.

Vasectomy risks

The possible short-term side effects after vasectomy include infection and irritation in the surgery site. Therefore, it is important to cover the area with some gauze or adhesive bandages to prevent contamination and scratching. If you experience a high level of pain after the procedure, consult your physician.

Note that vasectomy will not make anyone instantly sterile. The vas deferens holds sperm for some time after the process, so there is still some risk of pregnancy for some time. Continue using other methods of contraception until the doctor confirms the complete absence of sperm in your semen.

You should remember that vasectomy is considered to be permanent. Therefore, you should be certain that you do not want children in the future. So it is prudent to discuss the decision with your partner and to seek counseling before the procedure.