Conditions

VASECTOMY

Vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure to cut and close off the tubes (vas deferens) that deliver sperm from the testes. It is usually performed as a means of contraception.

The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes and usually causes few complications and no change in sexual function. A vasectomy is less invasive than a tubal ligation (i.e., the procedure used to prevent a woman's eggs from reaching the uterus) and more easily reversed. An increasing number of couples choose it as a means of permanent birth control.

To understand a vasectomy, it is helpful to understand the male reproductive system and how it functions. The testicles, or testes, are the sperm- and testosterone-producing organs. They are located in a sac at the base of the penis called the scrotum. Each testicle is connected to a small, coiled tube called the epididymis, where sperm are stored for as long as 6 weeks while they mature. The epididymes are connected to the prostate gland by a pair of tubes called the vas deferens. During ejaculation, seminal fluid produced by the prostate gland mixes with sperm from the testes to form semen, which is ejaculated from the penis.

Vasectomy has no effect on erection. It will not cause impotence or decrease your libido. In a vasectomy, only the vas deferens are blocked. The testes still produce sperm, but they die and are absorbed by the body. The level of male hormone remains the same and all sexual characteristic remain the same. 

	Preparation

Preparations that may be required prior to undergoing vasectomy include the following:

• Wash the scrotum to help prevent infection.
• Bring a pair of tight-fitting underwear or athletic supporter to support the scrotum and minimize swelling.
• Arrange for a ride home to minimize exertion and movement that can exacerbate swelling.
• Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin. (These medications "thin" the blood and can cause excessive bleeding.)

	Procedure

No-scalpel Vasectomy

In no-scalpel vasectomy, instead of making an incision in the conventional way, the surgeon makes only one tiny puncture into the scrotal skin with a special forceps.  The forceps is then opened to gently stretch the skin so that the vas deferens can be reached, lifted out, cut, cauterized, and put back in place. The puncture hole causes little bleeding and no stitches are needed to close it up.

The opening will heal quickly with little or no scarring.
Compared to the traditional incision techniques, the no-scalpel vasectomy usually takes less time, causes less discomfort and have lower rates of bleeding and infection.