Vasectomy

What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a sterilization procedure for men, in which the vas deferens tubes that carry sperm are closed off. Vasectomy is an outpatient procedure, and you'll receive local anesthesia for a pain-free experience. 

There are two kinds of vasectomy, including:

Traditional vasectomy

In a traditional vasectomy, your Arizona Urology surgeon creates two small incisions in your scrotum and then accesses the vas deferens through those openings. 

Your surgeon seals the tubes closed through tying off, cauterization, tiny clips, or a combination of these. Then, your surgeon closes the incisions with either tiny sutures or surgical glue. 

No-scalpel vasectomy

A no-scalpel vasectomy is a minimally invasive technique in which your Arizona Urology surgeon creates a tiny puncture in your scrotum, rather than incisions. 

Then, your Arizona Urology surgeon spreads the scrotal skin to find both vas deferens tubes and pulls each through the puncture to tie them off, place tiny clips, or cauterize them. 

Because you don't have an incision, you usually don't need sutures. The puncture typically heals naturally, but your surgeon applies a gauze dressing before you go home. 

Your Arizona Urology specialist will discuss the best vasectomy approach for you prior to surgery, so you know what to expect. 

What can I expect following a vasectomy?

Some pain, swelling, and bruising are normal, but it usually fades within a few days. Ice packs and supportive undergarments can relieve these symptoms. 

You'll typically need to rest at home for a full day after your vasectomy. Your urologist will let you know when you can resume light activity, usually in just a few days. 

Can I quit using birth control immediately after my vasectomy?

No. It's essential that you continue using a reliable birth control method until your Arizona Urology urologist clears you. Usually, your urologist does a sperm count at around 10-12 weeks after your vasectomy, once you’ve had 30 ejaculations. 

If your sperm count still shows active sperm, you'll typically have a follow-up sperm count in two to four weeks. Your urologist will let you know as soon as you're officially sterile and can skip birth control. 

Of course, a vasectomy has no effect on sexually transmitted diseases. So, if you currently use condoms to protect against STDs, you should continue doing so even though you no longer need them for birth control purposes.

For permanent birth control through a minimally invasive surgery, call the Arizona Urology location nearest you now.