Vasectomy offers a permanent way to prevent pregnancy. The minor surgical procedure may be a good choice if you're happy with the current size of your family or know that you never want to have children. Your urologist in Milford, MA, Dr. Jeffrey Steinberg of Urology Specialists of Milford, can help you decide if a vasectomy is the right choice for you.
How does a vasectomy prevent pregnancy?
A vasectomy prevents sperm from being ejaculated, or released, through your penis. You'll still produce semen, the white fluid that transports the sperm, but it will no longer contain sperm.
Two types of vasectomy procedures prevent sperm from being ejaculated. During a conventional vasectomy, your urologist makes one or two small cuts in the skin of your scrotum, the sac that holds your testicles. He cuts the vas deferens, the small tube that carries the sperm from the testicle. The cut ends of the vas deferens are tied or closed with heat. The procedure is then performed on the other vas deferens.
The size of the cut is much smaller with a no-scalpel vasectomy. Your urologist uses a microblade to make a tiny hole in your scrotum, then lifts your vas deferens through the hole to cut and seal it.
Where are vasectomies performed?
Most vasectomies are performed in the Milford urology office using local anesthetic. You may notice a little tugging when your doctor cuts the vas deferens, but you won't feel any pain. Before the procedure begins, your scrotum will be shaved. Depending on the procedure used, you may have a few stitches that will dissolve on their own in a few weeks.
Using an ice pack for the first 24 hours after surgery will help control pain and swelling. Mild pain or discomfort that may occur for a few days can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.
When can I have sex again?
You'll be able to have sex about a week after your procedure. Keep in mind that you or your partner will need to use birth control until there is no sperm remaining in your semen. In most cases, it will take about three months for this to happen.
Are you considering having a vasectomy? Call your Milford, MA, urologist, Dr. Jeffrey Steinberg of Urology Specialists of Milford, at (508) 473-6333 to schedule an appointment.