Vasectomy procedures are becoming more popular in this day and age, but there’s still some stigma around that can make this surgery seem daunting. What most people don’t know is that many advancements have been made to make the vasectomy procedure safer and less invasive.
There are four forms of vasectomy procedures: the traditional, the open-ended procedure, the fascial interposition method, and the no scalpel vasectomy. Taking the time to research into the different options and the clinics that offer the vasectomy procedure you want is a good way to put your mind at ease before your surgery.
It’s good to be informed before you choose to undertake a vasectomy procedure, so we’ve put together a step-by-step of what to expect during the surgery.
What to know before getting a vasectomy
A vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception, so it’s important that you take the time to consider if this is a surgery you want to undertake. Booking a consult allows you to discuss any concerns with your doctor. In terms of effectiveness, it is one of the most effective forms of birth control, with a success rate of over 99%.
A vasectomy does not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so condoms are still necessary if you have more than one sexual partner or you and your partner have not been tested.
As a one-time procedure that doesn’t need to be repeated, it is far more convenient than female birth control options such as the pill or the IUD and implant, both of which need to be replaced every few years. However, vasectomies can take three months or longer to take effect, so you will need to use other methods of contraception in this time.
Preparing for your vasectomy procedure
Before your vasectomy procedure, it’s important that you are sure this is the right choice for you. A vasectomy is one of the best methods of birth control if you and your partner are set on not conceiving in the future. A common myth is that vasectomies are reversible, but this is rarely the case, so reflecting and having a discussion with your partner is essential before you choose to move forward.
Researching into clinics that offer vasectomy procedures and choosing the right clinic is imperative. Make sure you choose a reputable clinic with an experienced doctor to ensure that your operation is safe and goes smoothly. You can book a consult beforehand to get a feel of the clinic and discuss the procedure with the doctor to ensure you want to proceed.
Before you come in for your vasectomy procedure, be sure to take a shower as you won’t be able to for 24 hours after your surgery.
What happens during your vasectomy procedure?
This will differ depending on the method you choose to go with. Before the operation, your doctor will apply local anaesthetic which ensures that you feel minimal pain during your vasectomy procedure.
The traditional vasectomy:
- A scalpel or sharp forceps will be used to access the vas deferens.
- One central or two large incisions will be made in order to cut and seal the vas tubes, and sections of the vas deferens may be removed.
- The vas deferens are sealed off.
- This method will take around 25 minutes.
The open-ended procedure method:
- Your doctor will make a 0.5cm opening in the front of your scrotum.
- The vas deferens, which is the tube the sperm travels through to exit into the outside world, will be cut.
- The penile end of the vas deferens is sealed and the testicular end is left open. This approach minimises the chances of acquiring post vasectomy pain syndrome. The risk of this is 1%.
- The opening made in the scrotum is closed by pressing skin edges together.
- This method can take 20 minutes to complete.
The fascial interposition method:
- Your doctor will make a 0.5cm opening in the front of your scrotum with fine, sharp forceps.
- Each vas deferens will be cut as it is in the open procedure.
- A layer of fascia (internal skin) is used to separate the testicular and penile ends of the vas deferens. This increases the success rate of a vasectomy to 99.9%.
- This method can take 20 minutes.
The no-scalpel vasectomy:
- Your doctor will use fine, sharp forceps to make a 0.5cm opening in the front of your scrotum.
- Each vas deferens will be cut as it is in the open procedure.
- No stitches will be required due to the no-scalpel nature of this vasectomy procedure.
- This method can take 15 minutes
All these methods have the same result of ensuring that your sperm will no longer reach the outside world. At Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, we combine the no scalpel, open ended, fascial interposition methods to ensure you have the most modern, effective, safe, and successful vasectomy procedure.
After your vasectomy procedure
Aftercare can vary depending on the type of vasectomy you choose. No-scalpel vasectomies typically have a shorter recovery time.
It is normal to experience some discomfort and swelling in the scrotum area for a few days after your vasectomy procedure. Taking over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol, using ice packs, and wearing supportive and tight underwear can help you manage the pain. Most men will only require paracetamol the next day.
You should not experience severe bruising or a purple or blue colour to your skin, severe pain, significant swelling, or significant redness around the incision area. If this occurs, you should contact your doctor or medical clinic.
Avoid any heavy lifting for 2-4 weeks and make sure to rest for 2 days after your vasectomy procedure to ensure a smooth recovery. You should avoid intense exercise such as bike riding or contact sports for 4 weeks, but with the no-scalpel method, you can resume light physical activity after 2 weeks.
You should also avoid any sexual activity for a week, and swimming or taking a bath for 2 days after your surgery. You can shower after 24 hours, but you’ll need to keep your wound as dry as possible. If you have any other concerns, Circumcision Vasectomy Australia offers a 24hr aftercare hotline.
Why choose us for your vasectomy procedure?
Circumcision Vasectomy Australia opts for an open-ended, no scalpel, fascial interposition method that minimises the discomfort of the surgery. It is far less invasive and makes getting this procedure a lot more approachable. It also has a quicker and easier recovery period than other methods, with less bruising and discomfort, and less risk of inflammation and infection.
Finding the right clinic for your vasectomy procedure
Choosing the right clinic for you can give you peace of mind for your surgery. At Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, we specialise in no-scalpel vasectomy procedures which are minimally invasive. We use forceps with pointed ends as opposed to scalpels, guaranteeing a quicker recovery time.
Our no-scalpel procedure only takes 20 minutes, and we use a nerve block so the only pain you will feel will be one sting for the application of the local anaesthetic into the skin.
As Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, we also offer a 24hr hotline after your vasectomy procedure for any aftercare concerns, so you can have access to support. Organise a consult with one of our experienced vasectomy doctors to find out more or book a procedure now.
