A vasectomy is a simple medical procedure in which the tubes that transport sperm are surgically blocked so the patient is unable to father children. While it is the most effective form of male contraception, the vasectomy is a commonly misunderstood procedure. To better understand what a vasectomy is and the benefits it provides, here are answers to a few questions on the subject.

5 FAQ About Vasectomies

What happens during the procedure?

A vasectomy is typically performed on an outpatient basis under a local anesthetic. The doctor uses a special surgical tool to make a small hole in the skin above the vas deferens, the duct that carries sperm from the testes to the urethra. Through the hole, the vas deferens is cut and tied. The incision is so tiny that no stitches are usually needed. In all, the procedure takes around 20 minutes, and most men feel nothing more than a slight tugging.

Will I continue making sperm?

Yes. A vasectomy does not alter sperm production in any way; it simply prevents sperm from leaving the testes. Instead, the sperms die off and are absorbed by the body.

What is the recovery process like?

For most men, the recovery process is relatively quick. With that said, plan to take it easy the day of the operation and for a few days afterward. After you've arrived home, lie down, apply an ice pack to the scrotum, and, if needed, take the pain medication prescribed by your doctor. You may be sore, but by the next day, you will likely feel comfortable moving around. Don't engage in any sports or heavy physical activity for the first few days. You may feel a heaviness or dragging in the scrotum for up to a few weeks after a vasectomy.

What are the benefits of a vasectomy?

As mentioned, it is the most effective form of male contraception. It comes with little risk and few side effects. By contrast, surgical female contraception procedures have substantially more risk, are far more invasive, and much costlier.

What should I know before having a vasectomy?

First, you should treat vasectomies as a permanent solution. While vasectomy reversals are possible, they are challenging procedures that are often unsuccessful. Also, it takes weeks or even months for all sperm to leave the vas deferens, so it's important to have regular sperm counts so you know when you are no longer producing sperm.

A vasectomy is the best way to take control of your sexual health. The family doctors at Lexington Family Physicians are here to help. Serving the Davidson County, NC, region, they provide a number of targeted and preventative medicine procedures. See if a vasectomy is right for you, and schedule an appointment with a physician by calling (336) 249-3329, visiting them online, or messaging them on Facebook.