Vasectomies can be intimidating for many men. While feeling anxious about undergoing a vasectomy is completely normal, the procedure is highly effective at preventing pregnancy, low-cost, low-risk, and, with the right team, relatively painless and minimally invasive. Here’s what you can expect from the process from start to finish.

Before the Vasectomy Procedure

Prior to undergoing a vasectomy, it’s important to talk to your doctor about any medications you’re taking. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, a week prior to the procedure. On the day of the surgery, you should wear comfortable clothing. Vasectomies are performed using local anesthesia. 

During the Vasectomy Procedure

Certain types of vasectomies, known as no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomies, are gaining popularity. In a no-needle vasectomy, a local anesthetic is administered using a hypospray, which numbs the surgical area instantly without a needle injection. A no-scalpel vasectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t require any sutures or stitches.

Before the surgery, the vas deferens, located on each side of the scrotum, are identified. Then, a tiny opening is made to lift the vas deferens, which are then cut, tied, and returned. Instead of using a scalpel to create a large incision, only a small puncture is made. The hole is so small that no stitches or sutures are needed.

After the Vasectomy Procedure

The vasectomy procedure is relatively quick, typically lasting between 10 to 30 minutes. Afterward, you may feel a bit drowsy from the anesthesia, so it’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home. Make sure to rest for at least 24 hours afterward. Applying ice to the testicles can help with recovery, and you should take pain medication if you experience any discomfort. It’s also recommended to avoid sexual activity for seven days following the procedure.

Three months later, a semen analysis will be performed to test for active sperm. If there is no active sperm, the vasectomy is a success. If there is active sperm, a follow-up test will be conducted. Therefore, you must use contraceptives until your semen has been tested and is free of sperm. 

Learn More About the Vasectomy Procedure

If you’re interested in learning more about the vasectomy procedure, Dr. Martin Bastuba and the team at the San Diego Vasectomy Center are here to help. Dr. Bastuba has performed thousands of surgical procedures and specializes in no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomies. For more information, contact us today to request an appointment at our conveniently located San Diego or La Jolla clinics.