What is a vasectomy?
This is a permanent (irreversible) operation to sterilise the male by disconnecting (cutting, tying or clamping) the tubes (the vas) which carry sperm from the testes to the penis. This is done through a small incision/s made on the scrotum. This procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic but occasionally, for surgical reasons or if preferred by the patient, a general anaesthetic may be given.
Are there any possible complications?
Occasionally a large blood clot (haematoma) can form in the scrotum that gradually resolves and has no long-term side effects. Bruising in the area is extremely common and will fade over approximately 14 days. However, one in ten patients experience some discomfort for a year or more.
In one in two hundred patients, the operation is not successful. This is detected by performing semen analysis 3 and 4 months after surgery (occasionally a further operation is required if the first one does not achieve complete sterility). Additionally, in one in two to four thousand patients, the sperm carrying tubes that have been divided re-join after a period of time. However, the risk is far smaller than the risk of pregnancy associated with any other form of sterilisation or contraception in current use.
What are the benefits?
It is a safe form of contraception.
Before the operation
- The scrotum will need to be shaved prior to surgery, but please do not do this at home – arrangements will he made for this to be done in the unit on the day of admission.
- Make initial arrangements with your employer to have 1-2 days off work. If your job involves heavy manual work or excessive driving, you may need longer off work.
- Wear tight supportive underpants on the day you come into hospital – not boxer shorts.
- Have a good bath using plenty of soap and water on the scrotal area before coming to hospital.
After your operation
When you return from the operating theatre, you will have one or two small wound/s on the scrotum. Sometimes a small gauze dressing may cover the wound or a water-repellent film may have been applied.
Going Home
After general anaesthetic – 2 hours
After local anaesthetic – 30 minutes approx.
Additionally, one of the nursing staff will check your wound/s to ensure bleeding has not occurred.
You will be given something to eat and drink before you go.
Your GP will be sent a discharge letter. If you are asked to deliver it please ask your escort to drop this into your surgery on the way home, or deliver it within 24 hours of discharge from the unit.
We recommend that tight supportive underpants be worn day and night for one week after surgery.
Bathing /showering & wound care.
The area around the wound can be washed with a clean damp flannel, but ensure the area is well dried. You may shower 24 hours after surgery, but do not have a bath for 48 hours.
Diet
You may eat and drink as normal after surgery.
Exercise
Normal daily mobilisation after 24 hours, but avoid swimming for one week and vigorous exercise or sexual intercourse for two weeks.
Stitches
These are usually dissolvable, and therefore will not need removing. However, they may take two – four weeks to dissolve.
Tablets and Medicines
You may be given painkilling tablets to take home, but if not, any of the “over the counter” painkillers from your chemist should be suitable, should you experience pain or discomfort.
Resuming sexual activity
No sexual intercourse for two weeks, or until you feel comfortable to do so. You may find erection painful and initially the ejaculated semen may be bloodstained – this will gradually resolve.
Out patient and follow-up
You will be asked to provide semen specimens at 12 and 16 weeks for analysis. The result of your semen analysis will be give to you either by post from your consultant’s secretary or at your out-patient follow up. You will receive full written instructions before going home.
ALTERNATIVE CONTRACEPTIVE MEASURES MUST BE TAKEN UNTIL THE RESULTS OF YOUR SEMEN ANALYSIS ARE KNOWN AND YOU HAVE BEEN INFORMED YOU ARE CLEAR.