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Vasectomies

Vasectomies are an effective way for a male to no longer be able to have children. The procedure takes ten minutes, and the patient is typically fully recovered in a couple days.

  • November 16, 2021
  • By Grand Itasca

Family Planning

Couples have a few options to consider when they decide they no longer want any more children. One option is a vasectomy for the male and another option is a tubal ligation for the female. The vasectomy is a quicker procedure with quicker recovery, and does not require the use of general anesthesia, so it is often the route that couples choose. 

Procedure

The procedure essentially stops the flow of sperm from the testicle to the urethra, so that there is no sperm present when ejaculation occurs.  The procedure takes about ten minutes and is performed in the clinic. A numbing medication is used at the start of the procedure. Patients will feel a little needle poke, just like at the dentist. Once the numbing medication kicks in, a hole the size of a pea is poked in the scrotum. A small piece of the tube is removed from both sides through that single hole. 

Recovery

Patients will experience minor swelling and soreness after a vasectomy. There may be some soreness the night of the procedure, but typically it does not show up until the following day. One of the greatest challenges is keeping men from doing too much activity the night of the procedure. Most men who have the procedure done are middle aged and have a lot of family responsibilities, which makes it hard for them to take it easy after the procedure. It is an important step to ensure quick recovery, however.  

Having Children Post-Vasectomy

While there have been reports of patients who have conceived a child after vasectomy, it is important to complete the testing that is recommended about three months after the procedure. The testing is used to confirm that the patient, is in fact, sterile. While waiting those three months, it is critical to continue to use appropriate birth control. A vasectomy should be considered a permanent procedure. Even though it can be reversed, it is very costly and typically not covered by insurance.

Hear more from Dr. Ryan Novak, Urologist

 

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