Vasectomy is a procedure that creates permanent sterility (the inability to have children) in a man. During the procedure, the two vas deferens are blocked in order to obstruct the flow of sperm out of the testicles.
Vasectomy (for men) and tubal ligation (for women) are considered the two methods to produce permanent sterilization. There are advantages and disadvantages to each procedure.
The procedure is a voluntary procedure that would not have any symptoms.
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT
Currently, there are no “medical” treatments for male contraception. The only approved male contraceptive is a condom.
SURGICAL TREATMENT
The vasectomy procedure is typically performed under local anesthetic (numbing medicine) in a doctor’s office or procedure clinic. The procedure typically takes 15 – 30 minutes and recovery is a few days but slightly longer for the return to more strenuous activity and exercise.
During the procedure, the vas deferens is cut and the ends are sealed. Typically, a piece of each vas deferens is also removed. As a minimum, the ends of the vas deferens should be sealed with cautery and the ends should be physically separated. Different surgeons also use a combination of clips and sutures during the procedure. The procedure may be performed with one or two punctures or incisions.
Schedule an appointment with a MidLantic Urology physician near you today!