What is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that interrupts the transportation of sperm between the testicle and the urethra, by blocking the tube that carries sperm, called the vas deferens. The procedure is designed to prevent conception when you have a sexual encounter. It is a permanent form of contraception, or birth control. Deciding to have a vasectomy is a personal decision that cannot always be reversed, so if you are considering a vasectomy, you should discuss this decision thoughtfully with your urologist, so you know what you can expect as a result. Dr. Melman is one of the top urology doctors in New York, and he can advise you of the risks and benefits associated with a vasectomy, but it remains a personal decision, and you will probably want to discuss the procedure with your sexual partner, if you are in a committed relationship.

How Is A Vasectomy Performed?

A vasectomy can usually be done in the office of your urologist, although some patients or their surgeons prefer to perform the procedure in an outpatient surgery center or a hospital. You will have to sign a consent form on the day of the procedure, and you may be asked to shave your scrotal area at home, but if you have not, it will be shaved in the procedure room. The area will be washed with an antiseptic solution and your urologist will inject some local anesthesia to numb the area of the procedure. This local numbing medicine will not completely deaden the area, but you should not feel any sharp pain. Since you will be awake during this procedure, you can tell your doctor if you experience any pain, and you can receive more anesthetic medicine.

If your urologist performs a no-scalpel vasectomy, he will feel for the vas deferens under the surface skin of your scrotum. The doctor will hold the vas deferens in place with a small clamp and then will use a special instrument to puncture your skin, stretch the opening, and lift the vas deferens. Under direct visualization, the doctor will then cauterize the vas deferens, or he may cut it or tie it, in order to prevent sperm from traveling through the vas. It will then be returned to the scrotum.

What Should I Expect After a Vasectomy?

After a vasectomy, you will return home. You should avoid vigorous activity and sexual activity for a period of time, usually about a week. You may have some swelling or slight discomfort, but your urologist will give you instructions to minimize the discomfort by wearing a jockstrap or other support. You can reduce swelling by placing an ice pack on your scrotum. You can return to work a day after the procedure, in most cases. However, before you rely upon your vasectomy to prevent pregnancy, you will have to have a sperm analysis. After 3 months, 20% of men still have sperm in the ejaculate, so it is important to wait until the sperm clears before having unprotected sex.

If you are considering a vasectomy, contact our office at 212-675-3186 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Melman, one of the top urology doctors in New York.