Vasectomy – an effective method of contraception for men
This is a method of contraception for men. Popularised since the 20th century, it is currently the most commonly performed outpatient procedure in men, probably due to the fact that it is the most effective method of contraception for men – the risk of fertilisation after the procedure is close to zero. An additional advantage is its low cost compared to all other methods of contraception (calculated per year of use) and the fact that it does not correlate in any way with the occurrence of cancer (of the testicles or prostate).
Effectiveness of the procedure
Male contraception in practice – learn more about vasectomy
The procedure is performed in a clinic (no hospitalisation is required), usually takes no longer than 30 minutes, and does not require any significant preparation (although shaving the scrotum may be considered for comfort when caring for the wound).
Local anaesthesia is used – it covers only the scrotum area and the wound itself is less than 1 cm long. Once it has healed, it is very likely that you will not be able to find the place where the procedure was performed.
Technically, the procedure involves the doctor making a small incision in the skin of the scrotum, extracting the vas deferens, cutting it, coagulating the end that runs outside, and separating the cut ends of the vas deferens so that they are now in separate spaces. This type of procedure is called the Canadian method, and the triple protection of the vas deferens allows for a success rate of over 99%. Next, dissolvable stitches and a dressing are applied to the operated area. And that’s the end of the procedure. Immediately after the procedure, the patient is observed in the clinic for about 30 minutes, after which time he can return home.
When does a vasectomy become fully effective?
It is worth noting that the effect of the procedure is not immediate. The sperm ducts need time to flush out any remaining live sperm. A follow-up examination to confirm the effectiveness of the procedure must be performed 8 weeks after the procedure, and another 12 weeks after the procedure. Only when you have two results that rule out the presence of live sperm in the semen can you stop using your current contraception – if in doubt, consult the doctor who performed the procedure.
The contraceptive effect will last for life, and the vasectomy itself will not change how your body functions. Your testicles will continue to produce sperm as before (except that the sperm will not enter the semen) and hormones. Your testicles will feel the same, your libido, erection quality, duration of intercourse, semen volume, appearance and smell… nothing will change here. The only difference is that neither you nor your partner will have to worry about accidental pregnancy anymore, what a relief!
Vasectomy – possible complications and how to prevent them
Vasectomy is a safe and effective contraceptive procedure, but like any medical procedure, it can involve certain risks and possible complications. In this section, you will find reliable information about possible difficulties and tips on how to avoid them. This will help you learn how to take care of your health before and after the procedure.
Vasectomy is a very safe and well-tolerated procedure, with a 2.5% risk of infection and a 2% risk of post-operative haematoma.
Accidental damage to surrounding structures (testicles, epididymis) is very unlikely. Rupture of the testicular artery leading to testicular atrophy is extremely rare in the hands of an experienced urologist.
Pain and discomfort after the procedure may occur in the first few days and usually respond well to commonly used painkillers, requiring no significant intervention.
Chronic pain persisting for several months after the procedure is rare (1.6%) and is not significantly severe; painkillers can control it. If necessary, it is advisable to consult the doctor who performed the procedure.
If you are concerned that you may regret your decision to have the procedure, remember that its effects can be reversed by reconnecting the ends of the vas deferens. The procedure usually takes longer, requires general anaesthesia and is more expensive, with an effectiveness rate of 50% if performed within 10 years of the initial procedure.
The decision to have a vasectomy – what should you do beforehand?
The decision to have a vasectomy is an important step that should be taken consciously and responsibly. Proper preparation will not only increase your comfort, but also minimise any inconvenience after the procedure. Find out how to take care of every detail so that the process runs smoothly and without complications.
Think about your plans, talk to your partner, and consult people you trust. It is very important that you know what is important to you and what you are deciding on.
Choose a doctor with whom you can discuss all your doubts and questions, plan the right moment and post-operative care. It is good to be able to consult your doctor after the procedure in case of any complications. Do not schedule the procedure just before a long trip/holiday/important meeting, etc. Although the risk of the procedure is very low, it is better to be safe than sorry.
When planning the procedure, take into account that when you leave the clinic, you will still be under the influence of the anaesthetic, you may feel a little dizzy, experience vertigo, etc. This means that for 4-8 hours you should not drive or operate any moving machinery, so it is a good idea to have someone pick you up after the procedure.
If you want to be absolutely sure that you will not regret your decision, or if you are not sure that you are in your ideal relationship, consider cryopreservation of sperm. The cost of this procedure is certainly lower than the stress resulting from the fear of the irreversibility of the procedure.
