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What does the vasectomy operation involve?
In a vasectomy, a small incision is made in the skin of the man's
scrotum. The vas (the tube that conveys the sperm from the testicles)
is then divided. A local anaesthetic is used for this, and the
procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Why won't I be sterile straight away?
After the operation, the sperm that are already in 'storage'
have to be used up before the man becomes sterile. This can take
two to four months, depending on the frequency of ejaculation.
When do I need to be tested?
To test whether the vasectomy operation has been successful,
it is necessary for the man to have two semen tests, two to four
weeks apart. The semen sample has to be collected by masturbation
and then delivered to the laboratory for testing. Until the man
has two negative samples, the couple need to continue to use another
method of contraception.
How effective is vasectomy?
Provided that there have been two negative semen tests, then
subsequent failures (ie pregnancies) are very rare - about 1 in
2000. This makes vasectomy one of the most effective methods of
contraception.
Are there any problems with vasectomy?
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Immediately after the vasectomy operation, there can be some
swelling and bruising of the scrotum. This can be minimised
by wearing tight-fitting underpants day and night for a few
days, and by avoiding strenuous exercise.
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Occasionally, there is bleeding into the scrotum, resulting
in a large swelling.
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Occasionally, an infection develops.
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Rarely, sperm leaks out of the cut tube and collects in the
surrounding tissue, forming a 'sperm granuloma', which can be
painful. This may need to be treated with a further operation.
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A few men might be unsuitable for vasectomy because of previous
surgery in the groin area.
Are there any risks to a man's general health?
There is no evidence, despite various scares in the past, that
vasectomy has any effect (good or bad) on a man's long-term health.
Can a vasectomy affect sexual function?
Your interest in sex, ability to achieve an erection and capacity
to reach a climax will be unaffected by the vasectomy operation.
Your testicles will continue to produce the male hormone, testosterone,
as before. This is absorbed into the bloodstream and circulates
around your body. The sperm form only a small part of the volume
of a man's ejaculate ('come'). You won't notice any difference
in the amount of fluid you produce after the operation.
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