Vasectomy procedure
This is a surgical procedure in which the tubes that carry sperm to the semen will be blocked, causing your semen to become sterile. The procedure is designed to prevent unwanted pregnancies, and is seen as almost 100% effective. It is the better option when it comes to permanent birth control.
Vasectomies are usually performed in the doctor’s office, but it can sometimes be done in the hospital as well. Your doctor will discuss the procedure with you, as well as whether you need to be fully sedated or just have the area numbed. This is usually based on how nervous you are, your anatomy or whether you are having another procedure done at the same time.
The vasectomy procedure is seen as a simple and minor one, with almost no risks involved. It is also known to be very effective, but it is not something you should decide to go through on your own. Before having such a procedure done, it is important that you talk to your partner and family first.
What happens before the vasectomy?
Before you decide to have a vasectomy, you need to talk to your doctor. Scheduling a consultation is very important, as your doctor can tell you more about the procedure and what you are interested in. Take the vasectomy procedure very seriously, and make sure that you talk to your partner and family first. Your healthcare provider will talk to you about:
- Any allergies or sensitivity you might have to local anesthetics.
- Medical history when it comes to excessive bleeding or blood disorders.
- Whether you often use aspirin or other medicine that affect bleeding.
- Any skin conditions you might have on or around the scrotum.
- History of earlier surgeries or injuries to the scrotum, genitals, or groin.
- History of any genital or urinary tract infections.
Consent form
After the consultation, you will be asked to sign a form where you agree to understand what the procedure is and the risks that are involved. Every surgery, no matter how minor, has some risks involved. This is something your doctor will talk to you about.
Preparation is simple
Before the surgery, your scrotum will be washed and shaved completely. This happens the night or the morning before the surgery, and it is advised that the patient does this. But if you have any trouble with this, you can talk to your doctor before hand.
What happens after the vasectomy?
It is normal to feel mild pain and discomfort after the procedure. You might experience mild bruising and selling, too. Make sure to take the medicine your doctor has prescribed for the pain and swelling. You will be advised to place bags of frozen vegetables or ice packs on the groin area, and you can also use a scrotal supporter.
When the dressing is stained or soiled, you should change it. You can buy small sterile gauzes at the store, and it is easy to remove and change. You can take the first shower a day after the vasectomy, but make sure that you avoid baths or swimming for at least a couple of weeks. Dry your scrotum after the shower properly, but do not rub.
