Know The Facts About Your Vasectomy

There are few times when it is very important to know all the facts than it is before undergoing a surgical procedure. Having a procedure done on any body part that will alter that part should only be done after you have had a chance to know all the facts about the procedure, including the purpose for the procedure, who will be doing the procedure, how will the procedure be done, what if any anesthesia will be used, how long the procedure will last, any usual or unusual side effects that may occur, and what the recovery period will be like. Your questions should be directed at the doctor responsible for your medical/surgical care, or any supporting medical staff involved. This article includes some basic information about the vasectomy procedure that may give you points of reference when you are consulting with your doctor about your specific vasectomy.

The Procedure’s purpose:

The procedure is performed in order to prevent the sperm from mixing with the semen. This is done so that the male is not able to impregnate a female after the sperm in his system at the time of the vasectomy have been released from his body.

How is the procedure done?

The vasectomy procedure is done by altering the two tubes called the “vas deferens” that carry the sperm from the testicles to the urinary tract where they mix with the semen. When the tubes are altered so that the sperm cannot pass, all that comes out of the man after the procedure is complete and the sperm count has gone done to a negative count, is semen alone. When only semen is ejaculated during the sexual act; pregnancy is not possible as sperm is needed in order to fertilize the woman’s ova (egg) resulting in conception.

Failure Rate:

The vasectomy has a theoretical failure rate (when used correctly over a period of one year) of 0.02 – 0.1% with an actual failure rate of 0.02 – 0.2% when used routinely but not necessarily correctly over the course of a year. The vasectomy has a very high effectiveness rate with no needed preparations before sex or during sex.

Permanent Birth Control Method:

This type of birth control should be considered a permanent method. There is some risk for infection and some side effects such as swelling, pain and/or discomfort and some bruising of the surgical site. Couples should not go into a decision that involves a permanent solution such as a vasectomy with the thought of having the option to have a reversal performed if they change their minds afterwards. Although a vasectomy reversal is available, the cost is extensive and the outcome is uncertain and not guaranteed.

A vasectomy is usually covered by most insurance companies, is an in-office, or in clinic procedure that is also offered as an outpatient hospital procedure. The operation takes approximately 30 minutes or less to perform. At most there is usually 48 hours or less of loss work time due to recovery. The average cost of the vasectomy ranges from $350.00 to $1,000. There is some mild pain, soreness, some bruising, swelling and inflammation at the site of the procedure. In rare cases complications include infection, and possible hematoma.

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