Are you thinking about getting a vasectomy? It can be a great option if you don’t plan to have children in the future, but considering a vasectomy can raise a lot of questions — and concerns.
Vasectomy is a minimally invasive surgery to cut or block your vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from your testicles to your urethra. When you have a vasectomy, your semen won’t contain sperm anymore, and your fertility is greatly reduced.
It’s an extremely effective form of permanent birth control, and it’s important to get all your questions answered before proceeding with the procedure. Our doctors and the team at Advanced Urology are here to help.
We specialize in no-scalpel vasectomy at our offices in Culver City, Los Angeles, Redondo Beach, and San Pedro, California. Read on to learn the answers to some of the most common questions we get about vasectomies.
We perform vasectomies under local anesthesia, so you’re awake, but you can’t feel pain during the procedure. You may experience mild discomfort or soreness for a few days afterward, but it should fade within about a week.
We recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and rest to help you stay comfortable. Applying ice packs and wearing supportive underwear can also help manage any swelling and discomfort you experience.
Since vasectomy is minimally invasive, the recovery period is relatively short. We recommend resting and avoiding strenuous activities for a couple of days. Most men can return to work and resume normal activities within a week or so.
You should wait about one week after your vasectomy before you have sex, and be sure you’re cleared by the doctors beforehand. Waiting a week allows time for your incision to heal and reduces your risk of infection or complications.
No. Vasectomy isn’t effective right away, because it takes some time for any remaining sperm to clear from your reproductive system. After your procedure, we test your semen at specific intervals to detect sperm. You must use an alternative form of birth control until the doctors confirm that your semen is free of sperm.
Yes, you can still ejaculate after a vasectomy — and you shouldn’t notice any differences. The procedure only affects the tubes that carry sperm, not semen production or the sensation of ejaculation.
No, getting a vasectomy doesn’t change sexual function or libido. The procedure only stops sperm from being released during ejaculation, and it doesn't interfere with sexual hormones or other aspects of your sexual health.
Vasectomy is a permanent method of birth control. While vasectomies can be reversed, reversal isn’t always successful. That means if you think you might want to have children in the future, a vasectomy may not be the best option for you.
Deciding to get a vasectomy is a personal choice, and it’s important to discuss your options with your health care team. We offer comprehensive vasectomy consultations at Advanced Urology, where we review your individual circumstances, family planning goals, and overall health to help you make an informed decision.
Vasectomy is a safe and effective form of permanent birth control and a reliable method for family planning. If you have more questions or concerns about vasectomy, schedule an appointment with our team. Call the office nearest you or send us a message online now.
