A vasectomy is a procedure that cuts the supply of sperm to the semen in the male reproductive system. It is a highly effective form of birth control for men who are certain they do not want any more children. Vasectomies have very high success rates.

As with any medical procedure, vasectomies have potential side effects and risks. However, they are generally low-risk.

The Vasectomy Procedure: Step by Step

Generally performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, vasectomy surgery only takes 10-30 minutes. The doctor will:

• Numb the area by injecting local anesthesia into the skin of the scrotum
• Make a small incision on the upper part of the scrotum
• Locate the vas deferens, the tube that carries semen from the testicle
• Withdraw part of the vas deferens
• Cut the vas deferens where it has been pulled out of the scrotum
• Seal the vas deferens by tying it
• Close the incision

Some doctors offer no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomies. During a no-needle vasectomy, local anesthetic is delivered via a “hypospray,” which numbs the operating area instantly without a needle injection. A no-scalpel vasectomy is a minimally invasive technique that requires no sutures or stitches.

Vasectomy Risks

It’s normal to wonder if, after having a vasectomy, you might change your mind and decide to have more children in the future. While it may be possible to reverse a vasectomy, the process is more complicated and there is no guarantee that it will work.

Another option is undergoing fertility treatments with your partner, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), but even this may not be effective. Therefore, it’s important to be absolutely certain about not wanting any future children before getting a vasectomy. If you have any questions or concerns before the procedure, you should discuss them with your partner and doctor.

Potential Side Effects of Vasectomies

For most men, vasectomies don’t cause noticeable side effects, but some may experience:

• Bleeding in the scrotum
• Bruising of the scrotum
• Infection of the surgery site
• Mild pain
• Swelling

Delayed complications may include chronic pain, fluid buildup in the testicle, inflammation, abnormal cysts in the testicles, or pregnancy, in the event that the vasectomy fails. However, these complications are extremely rare.

There are many myths surrounding vasectomies that can make them seem scarier than they are. For example, a vasectomy won’t impact your sex drive or sexual performance in any way. Additionally, a vasectomy won’t damage your sexual organs, increase your risk of certain cancers, or cause severe pain.

Learn More About Vasectomies From the Experts

Vasectomies can seem daunting, but they are quick and relatively painless procedures. While there are side effects and potential complications, the benefits of getting a vasectomy far outweigh any risks, especially if you opt for a no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy.

At the San Diego Vasectomy Center, our male health specialist, Dr. Martin Bastuba, specializes in microsurgical procedures, including 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.