Vasectomy is a safe and effective form of permanent birth control for men, but many aren’t familiar with the details. Here, UAB Medicine urologist Patrick Murray, M.D., answers some common questions about this outpatient procedure.
What is a vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a medical procedure that blocks the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. Before a vasectomy, semen contains sperm and seminal fluid. After the procedure, sperm are no longer in the semen. You still ejaculate normally, but doing so will not result in pregnancy. Vasectomy and condoms are the only approved options for male contraception currently, though birth control medications for men are being tested.
What are the benefits?
The main benefit is that it’s over 99% effective and one of the most reliable forms of birth control. Beyond that, many men and their partners say their sex lives are improved and that sex can be more spontaneous, since unwanted pregnancies are no longer a concern.
How is the procedure done?
The procedure is done in the office using medication to numb the area rather than putting the patient to sleep. It normally takes 15-20 minutes. One or two small openings are made in the scrotum, then special instruments are inserted through these openings and used to safely block the tubes that carry sperm. This minimally invasive method helps reduce pain, swelling, and recovery time.
Is it painful?
Local anesthetic is used to numb the area, so you should not feel pain, but you may feel a pulling sensation or pressure during the procedure. Afterward, mild pain from swelling and bruising of the scrotum is normal for a few days, and this can be eased with ice packs, wearable scrotal support, and over-the-counter medication. Most patients don’t need prescription pain medicine.
Will a vasectomy reduce my testosterone level or affect my ability to get an erection?
No. The procedure has no impact on the body’s production of testosterone or any other hormones, and it has no effect on the ability to get an erection or have an orgasm. A vasectomy will not slow down your sex drive in any way.
What is the recovery time?
Usually just a few days. Most men can return to light activity after three days, but you should not engage in strenuous activity, lift anything over 15 pounds, or participate in sexual activity (including masturbation) for at least one week.
How can I know that the vasectomy is successful?
About three months after the procedure, patients are asked to provide a semen sample to make sure there are no sperm remaining in the semen. You can have sex before that time, but you will still need to use some form of contraceptive. Even though the tubes that carry sperm are blocked, it usually takes about three months and 20-30 ejaculations to clear the remaining sperm from the reproductive tract.
If your post-vasectomy semen analysis shows no sperm, then you will no longer need to use other methods of birth control. It’s important to note, however, that a vasectomy does not prevent sexually transmitted infections, so condoms are still important for that protection.
Can a vasectomy be reversed?
Vasectomy reversal is possible, but it’s a more complex procedure. Men considering vasectomy should think of it as a permanent form of birth control. If you later decide that you want to have a child, UAB Medicine has fellowship-trained urologists with specialized expertise in vasectomy reversal and other forms of male infertility care.