SERVICES OFFERED
VASECTOMY
WHAT DOES A VASECTOMY INVOLVE?
A vasectomy is a male sterilisation that involves the removal of the vas deferens (sperm duct). The vas deferens is a strong tube that runs through the epididymis into the cavity of the pelvis and delivers developed sperm to the urethra. The procedure entails the surgical removal of a small tissue portion of the vas deferens from both ends and the insertion of new tissue to prevent the severed ends from making contact again.
Are there alternatives?
Alternatively, you can consider additional forms of male and female contraception. However, a vasectomy can be regarded as an irreversible surgical procedure. You should rethink your decision if you have any doubts concerning the procedure. A vasectomy is strongly discouraged in men who have never had children.
What can you expect on the day of the vasectomy?
Dr Ras will briefly review your medical history, surgical procedures and chronic medications and explain the procedure in further detail to obtain patient consent.
A vasectomy is performed while the patient is under general anaesthetic, or your anaesthesiologist will discuss the option of using a spinal anaesthetic. You may also enquire about pain-relief medication after the procedure.
Dr Ras provides a scrotal support which eases pain and helps to decrease swelling after the procedure.
Are there side effects?
Almost all patients develop mild bruising and swelling in the area for several days. Other rare side effects include blood in semen during ejaculation, scrotal swelling that requires drainage, testicular pain, inflammation of the testicles and early and late failure, which results in fertility and pregnancy.
What can you expect in the postoperative phase?
The local anaesthetic is expected to wear off between four to six hours. After the procedure, you are encouraged to take painkillers as prescribed by Dr Ras before the effects of the anaesthetic subside. You will be required to wear a jockstrap during the postoperative phase. Ice can be applied to the area to treat swelling and pain but not over the skin directly. You will be advised not to exert yourself physically over the next few weeks. Contact Dr Ras immediately if you experience progressive swelling, bruising and pain.
What do you need to understand about sperm counts?
After the procedure, Dr Ras will request a semen sample about twelve weeks into your recovery. The specimen is studied under a microscope in the laboratory to trace the number of sperm cells. If there are no sperm cells found, this means that the sterilisation is complete. However, if the sample contains sperm, you will need to return for a follow-up a few weeks later to test your count again.
FAQ
Does this mean I am sterile after a vasectomy?
No. Sperm can pass through the tubes before the procedure. The sperm that remains needs to be passed through the tubes through ejaculation. You will be required to ejaculate 20 to 30 times to clear the tubes of the remaining sperm.
Will I be able to drive after a vasectomy?
You can start driving a few days after the vasectomy. However, it would help if you gave yourself time to heal before you feel comfortable driving again.
What should I avoid doing after a vasectomy?
You must avoid carrying heavy loads and engaging in strenuous exercise and intercourse for a week or more.
