VASECTOMY

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure used as a method of male contraception. It involves the cutting and sealing of the vas deferens, which are the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. The operation prevents sperm from mixing with the semen that is ejaculated from the penis. As a result, even though ejaculation still occurs, the semen does not contain sperm, making it impossible to cause pregnancy.

The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting, meaning it’s quick and you can go home the same day. There are two main types of vasectomy: the conventional method, which involves making small incisions to access the vas deferens, and the no-scalpel method, which uses a small puncture to access these tubes. Both methods are highly effective, boasting close to a 100% success rate in preventing pregnancy.

Recovery from a vasectomy is usually straightforward, with most men experiencing only mild discomfort that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions on activity level and use another form of birth control until a follow-up test confirms the absence of sperm in the semen. While vasectomies are generally considered permanent, they can be reversed in some cases, although the success rates for restoring fertility vary