It’s likely someone that you know has undergone a vasectomy. It’s a routine procedure, and it’s more common than you might think. Over 30,000 men in Australia have a vasectomy each year. So, what exactly is the procedure and what can you expect?
Read on to learn more about this safe, effective and permanent form of contraception with Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, and what to expect throughout the process.
The procedure itself
You might be wondering what exactly goes on “down there” during a vasectomy. Here at Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, our doctors specialise in the no-scalpel technique. A small puncture (2mm to 3mm) is made in the scrotum. Then, the vas deferens – the two tubes that carry sperm to your urethra from your testes – are located. Once located, your doctor will cut each of them. This is what you may have heard being called “the snip”.
The testicular end of the vas deferens is left open ended, whilst the penile end is sealed. Following this, a layer of tissue is positioned between each end of them. This is so there is less of a chance that they’ll fuse back together on their own.
With that, the procedure is complete, and the small puncture in your scrotum is glued together to heal.
What to expect during the procedure
Minimal discomfort
A local anaesthetic is administered before the vasectomy procedure begins via a needle, which might sting slightly. The anaesthetic works instantly and you will feel no pain throughout the procedure. The no-scalpel and open-ended techniques combined are the most comfortable a vasectomy can be.
Timeframe
The procedure itself is very quick at less than 20 minutes. Once the anaesthetic has worn off and your doctor has explained aftercare, you can drive yourself home to rest. It’s worth noting that prior to your vasectomy you will need to have a consultation with one of our doctors to ensure the procedure is right for you. This can be on the same day as your procedure or any time beforehand, depending on your preference.
What to expect 24 hours after vasectomy procedure
Recovery
Once you arrive home after your vasectomy, it’s recommended that you rest completely to give your body a head-start at recovery. Everybody recovers differently, and there is a chance that you will experience some mild swelling, discomfort and bruising in the first day or two after your procedure. These symptoms can be relieved with simple painkillers like paracetamol and by icing the area. . Wearing tight underwear in the days following will support the area’s recovery.
After 24 hours, you can shower, but it’s important that you keep your wound as dry as possible. It’s also best to avoid sexual intercourse and heavy physical work for a week after the procedure. If your job isn’t physical, you can return within a few days.
Minor risks and side effects
One question we are frequently asked is around ejaculation and sexual performance following the procedure. There’s no need to worry! Sexual function is not affected by vasectomy, and you will still ejaculate and perform as normal. The only difference is undetectable – your semen will be sperm-free!
As with any medical procedure, there are minor risks and side effects to look out for. If you’re experiencing bleeding or suspect an infection, contact your vasectomy clinic. At Circumcision Vasectomy Australia we offer a 2r hour on call service.
There is also a small chance that the vas deferens (the tubes that get “snipped”) will find each other again within the scrotum and reconnect. The open-ended, fascial interposition technique implemented by our doctors reduces this chance to 0.1%.
What to expect 2 weeks and beyond
Physical activity
At around the week mark (possibly sooner), you will comfortably be able to have protected sexual intercourse again. At the four-week mark, you can safely participate in exercise and activities such as cycling or contact sports.
Follow up sperm count
During your appointment, your doctor will organise a sperm test to take place around three months after your procedure to confirm it was a success (you are infertile). Prior to this, using other contraceptives such as condoms or the pill is recommended. At the point of the sperm test, most patients get the “all clear” and no further testing is needed.
If you and your partner have made the decision to not have any (or any more) children, then having a vasectomy is a great option for you. Not only are vasectomies a very effective form of birth control, they’re also the most cost-effective form of birth control in the long-term.
At Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, we provide vasectomies that take only 20 minutes and offer 24-hours of aftercare in the comfort of your own home. Get in touch with us if you’d like more information about the procedure, what to expect, or to book an appointment.