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Vasectomy


Vasectomy is a procedure for male sterilization. It prevents sperm from entering into the urethra and is performed with an incision or a no-scalpel method. The incision method involves numbing the scrotum with a local anesthetic and then one or two small cuts are made in the skin of the scrotum. Through these cuts, the vas deferens are tied or blocked with surgical clips. The tubes can also be closed with an electrical current before the cut is stitched. The no-scalpel method makes one tiny puncture in the scrotum. The vas deferens tubes are located via the puncture and then they are cauterized, tied or blocked. The small puncture heals quickly so no stitches are needed.

Ideal candidates are certain they don't want to father a child. The best candidates are patients who understand all the procedure entails and are emotionally, mentally and physically stable. Patients suffering from a skin infection or inflammation on the scrotum, bleeding disorders or have had a previous surgery on the region of the testicles are not suitable candidates.

The typical cost for a vasectomy ranges from $500-$3000.The final cost depends on if the patient has health insurance that will cover some of the cost, surgical facility fees, the surgeon’s level of expertise and the geographic location of the procedure.

There could be some mild discomfort, swelling and bruising of the scrotum for a few days after the procedure. Tight fitting underwear should be worn for the first few days to support the scrotum, reduce discomfort and swelling. Patients can have sex after 1-2 weeks though another method of contraception should be used for at least 8 to 12 weeks. About 12 weeks after the procedure, the patient's semen is tested for sperm. Once the test confirms the semen to be sperm-free, the procedure is considered successful. The results are permanent unless a reversal procedure is done.

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