A vasectomy is a simple surgical procedure, which offers birth control for men and a permanent means of contraception for men who do not wish to have more children.
It is also popular as it does NOT:
- Alter male characteristics
- Affect hormonal and sexual functioning
- Impair or alter erections, sexual drive or ejaculation (although there is a potential for psychological impediments)
- Affect sperm production in the testicles, which is subsequently absorbed by the tissue.
Where can I get a vasectomy?
- At our rooms at our clinic located at Chermside.
- At the Montserrat Day Hospital North Lakes if general anaesthesia is desired and/or patient privately insured
How is a vasectomy performed?
The vasectomy procedure is generally performed using local anaesthesia to alleviate the possibility of pain and discomfort. After the anaesthesia has been administered, the doctor makes two incisions, one on either side of the scrotum. These incisions are made in order to locate the two thin tubes (the vas deferens) that carry the sperm. Once the tubes are located, a small portion of each tube is removed and the tube is sealed off. This forms a permanent barrier and prevents sperm moving from the testes into the vas deferens. The procedure takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
How should I prepare for the procedure?
Shave the scrotum area in the morning of the procedure. No fasting is required if procedure performed under local anaesthesia in the rooms. Fast for 6 hours before the operation if planning to receive general anaesthesia. Bring with you a jockey pair of underpants (not boxers) for support, and arrange for someone to accompany you home afterwards.
What should I do Post operatively?
You will be in recovery for approximately 1 hour. You cannot drive a car for 24 hours after the procedure if general anaesthesia was administered. You must rest, placing a cold pack on the area to prevent swelling. There should be little activity on the day of the procedure, and no strenuous activity for a few days.
How long do I still need other forms of birth control after the procedure?
The reproductive tract is not clear of sperm for several weeks. A semen sample is taken only once, 12 weeks later (after approximately 15-20 ejaculations). There are specific rules for the semen collection which will be carefully explained to you by Dr. Braun. You will be given a pathology form on the day of your procedure in order to get this test done. We will receive the test results and report to you via regular mail.
If the sperm count is not completely negative ? the test will need to be repeated in another 2 weeks. Please bare in mind that until the semen count is totally negative, alternate methods of contraception must be maintained, as one can still be fertile.
What are the risks associated with a vasectomy?
Recovery from a vasectomy is rapid and serious complications are rare. Fewer than 3 in 100 men develop minor complications, which are treatable:
Swelling, bruising and pain
These are the most common complaints concerning post-operative recovery after a vasectomy. Such discomfort subsides usually within a week and easily treatable with ice packs (wraped in a towel) and mild pain relief. Remember avoid any exercise or strenuous work for a few days.
The development of Granulomas
A minority of man develop a small lump of inflammatory tissue, called granulomas, which is caused by sperm leaking into surrounding tissues. If they do cause pain, they are generally treated with bed rest and pain relief.
Infection
Risk of infection is minimised/prevented by the use of sterile techniques and careful wound care post operatively. Infection, if present, tends to cause localised swelling, redness, tenderness with or without pus. The 1% or less of men experiencing an infection, which can involve the skin, testes or scrotum, simply require antibiotics.
Haematoma
One of the small blood vessels cut during the procedure may leak or if the area is struck (e.g. by a ball or during heavy work), then the sealed wound can open up. This will result in a blood clot forming inside the scrotum. They may need to be drained.
Epididymitis
This is a local inflammation near the side of the operation, which occurs mostly within the first year after the vasectomy. It is treated with heat and usually clears within a week.
Vasectomy failure
Failure of vasectomy due to re-canalisation (re-joining) of the vas can result in pregnancy. Approximately 1 in 1000. This can happen any time after the procedure, but is most common during the first 5 years post-operatively. The most common reason for vasectomy failure is unprotected intercourse before the sperm have cleared the reproductive tract, so it is important to use alternative contraception until your sample indicates no more sperm present.
Post Vasectomy Syndrome
This affects 2 to 4% of men. You may experience a drawing or dragging sensation in the scrotum. This is usually treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and in most cases will settle down. In rare cases, the vasectomy may have to be reversed
After General Anaesthesia
Even though you may be feeling fully recovered, it is important that you MUST NOT:
- Drive a motor vehicle
- Operate machinery
- Consume alcohol
- Consume any drugs that are not prescribed for you
- Sign any important documents
- Do anything that requires fine decision making skills until 24 hours after the procedure.
To schedule a surgical consultation with Dr Braun, please email info@lapsurgerybrisbane.com.au call direct on 07 3353 9694
