A Guide to Men's Health, Reproductive Medicine, and Microsurgery
Vasectomy is the most effective current method of male contraception. It is also the most common form of permanent birth control.
This safe, low-risk procedure is performed in a comfortable setting in the office with a local anesthetic, usually in less than 20 minutes. An antibiotic and anti-anxiety medication are generally prescribed prior to the procedure.
There is minimal discomfort during or after the procedure, and most men resume their regular activities within 48 hours. If requested, vasectomies can be performed under conscious sedation, commonly referred to as "twilight" anesthesia.
Usually, the recovery after vasectomy is short. Ice packs for the first 24-48 hours help reduce any pain or swelling after the procedure. It is important to refrain from sexual activity for a couple of days to allow the body to heal. A scrotal supporter is recommended for about one week. Light activity for a few days after the procedure is prudent. Most people are able to return to work the next day, depending upon the physical demands of their job. Some people prefer to have the procedure performed on a Friday and rest throughout the weekend.
It is important to remember that sperm will still be present in the semen following a vasectomy for a period of time. The exact amount of time it takes to clear sperm from the semen following a vasectomy is unknown. It can take weeks or even months. For this reason, couples need to continue using their current method of birth control until 2 separate semen samples show no sperm. Most urologists recommend performing these samples beginning 3 months after the vasectomy is performed.
Although vasectomies are extremely successful in preventing unwanted pregnancies, nothing in medicine is 100% certain. Studies have shown that there is a roughly 1 in 1000 chance of sperm returning to the semen after vasectomy, regardless of what technique is used.
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