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Vasectomies

Vasectomies are performed in the Brisbane, Gold Coast, Rockhampton and Newcastle day surgeries.

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; hormonal and sexual functioning is unaffected, erections, sexual drive and ejaculation remain the same.  Sperm is still produced in the testicles but is absorbed by the tissue.

How is a vasectomy performed?

The vasectomy procedure is generally performed using IV sedation and 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.  You will be in theatre for about half an hour.

How should I prepare for the procedure?

Shave the scrotum area at least two days before the procedure, and fast at least 6 hours before the appointment time.  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.  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.  You must return in a week’s time to have the stitches removed.  Refrain from sexual intercourse until your check up.

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) when it shows no sperm.  You will be given a pathology form on the day of your procedure in order to get this test done.

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 (wrap 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 men 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 recanalisation (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 IV Sedation
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 sklls

Until 24 hours after the procedure.