The Vasectomy Procedure

The Vasectomy Procedure

At its essence, the vasectomy is a medical procedure used to prevent the flow of sperm from a male to a female, thus preventing pregnancy and usually increasing peace of mind during sexual relations. Enjoying your spouse without a concern for pregnancy can increase desire, arousal and satisfaction!

Vasectomy Anatomy 101

In the male body, the testes (or testicles) produce sperm and reside in the scrotum at the base of the penis. The epididymis stores these sperm until they are fully developed and needed during sexual arousal. At that time, the microscopic sperm travel a long, long way through the vas deferens. This vessel wraps all the way from the scrotum around to the back of the bladder. Then, the sperm pass the seminal vesicle and join with seminal fluid. Finally they pass the prostate before being expelled through the urethra during ejaculation. 

Vasectomy Target: the Vas Deferens

In the penis, the vas deferens is the tube that carries sperm from the scrotum (really, the testicles) to become semen when mixed with seminal fluid. During sexual release, it’s really the main thoroughfare for sperm.

So What Exactly is a Vasectomy?

The word vasectomy is a two-part medical term, “vas” and “ectomy.” The word vas on its own is defined as a tube or duct that carries a liquid. And while ectomy literally translates as “removal or cutting out,” a vasectomy does not necessarily have that exact meaning; rather, the vas deferens is transected, not completely taken out, though in some procedures, a small portion may be removed. Because the vas deferens is disjointed during a vasectomy, the sperm can no longer join with the rest of the seminal fluid. That said, as sperm only make up three to five percent of this seminal fluid, ejaculation will remain the same both in its pleasurable feeling and consistency.

How does this look for MY Vasectomy?

During your vasectomy, which usually lasts just over 15 minutes, Dr. Sussman will numb a small spot on the underside of the scrotum and create a tiny incision. This incision is around a quarter of an inch, no more. Using microscopic surgical tools and techniques, Dr. Sussman will then sever and cauterize the tiny tube that is the vas deferens. Finally, to close the wound, a single stitch will be employed. 

Is Vasectomy Painful?

During a vasectomy, the area of the surgical site is numbed. As is the case with any numbing, there is a touch of burning sensation associated during application, but once complete, the vasectomy site will have no pain during the procedure. 

What about after my Vasectomy?

Honestly, there is some mild discomfort associated with vasectomy. However, we have had patients that have literally said there was no follow up pain at all. Still after a vasectomy, a patient usually needs to remain off his feet for the remainder of the day. Ice packs and over the counter pain medication may be desired to reduce pain. And no need for a follow up stitch removal: the single stitch will dissolve on its own. 

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