The Vasectomy Basics
Vasectomy is a form of permanent sterilization for men. The tubes that carry sperm into a man’s ejaculatory fluid are cut so he is no longer able to fertilize an egg, and thus, preventing pregnancy. These tubes are called the vas deferens, and there are two of them.
The basics of vasectomy involve local anesthesia which is usually used for the procedure. This allows for less trauma to the entire body and shorter recovery time than a procedure which uses general anesthesia in which the patient is completely asleep.
Generally the basics of vasectomy stay pretty much the same from doctor to doctor, with only minor variations in the procedure.
Basically, a very small incision (or sometimes a puncture which uses a needle, and therefore considered incision-free) is made in the scrotum. Next, the tubes that deliver the sperm to the seminal fluid (vas deferens, remember) are gently slid through the opening in the scrotum.
Once exposed, it is accessible for work by the surgeon, who then cuts a small segment from the vas deferens. The surgeon next cauterizes (or sometimes ties) the ends of the tubes to prevent reconnection.
The Basics of Vasectomy: Recovery
Initially, there may be some swelling and bruising, but usually it will abate in just a couple of days. Of course, healing time varies, just as with any bruising or swelling. Overall, the recovery time of a vasectomy is usually quite speedy. Normal activities can resume after only a couple of days. In fact, you can maybe return to work the very next day.
Again, the basics of vasectomy are generally all the same; the doctor will provide specifics to care for the recovery period, but likely, acetaminophen will be recommended for any pain. Depending on the preferred method of the doctor, a stitch may be used to close the tiny incisions, but it will dissolve in around 10 days.
Some tiny bleeding or a little oozing from the surgical site is to be expected. After 24 hours, however, this will cease. This is cared for by a small about of wound dressing.
It is important to take care when bathing, as only showering is recommended for 4 – 5 days post procedure. Then, when drying off, be sure to not scrub the site with your towel, rather gently pat the area dry.
Some like to use a bag of frozen vegetables for the site for pain during the first day or so. Peas are a favorite.
As far as sex is concerned after a vasectomy, it is best to wait 4 – 5 days, but resume when it feels comfortable to do so. Like many procedures, it is important to hold off on strenuous activities like workouts, heavy yard work and running for 4 – 5 days as well. Listen to your body.
The Basics of Vasectomy: Risks
The complications associated with vasectomy are very minimal. The most common of which is bleeding from the site. Again, this is to be expected at least for a day or so. For more information as to how much bleeding is too much, this article may help.
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If you are looking for a practice that can answer any questions about vasectomy, Dr. Sussman, of Las Vegas Vasectomy, prides himself of the personal care that his office provides his patients, including personal text conversations. His website details his procedure with his clients. He has offices in Las Vegas, NV; Lake Havasu City, AZ; Reno, NV; St. George, UT; and Kingman, AZ.
