Vasectomy

What is a vasectomy?

The decision to have a vasectomy is a very personal choice, so it’s important to understand what the procedure is and what to expect. A vasectomy works by cutting the vas deferens and tying it off, which makes it virtually impossible for sperm to pass through. While you can still ejaculate normally, sperm won’t be able to reach the semen, meaning you won’t be able to get your partner pregnant.

How does a urologist perform a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is an in-office procedure that takes just a few minutes to perform. During your vasectomy, your dedicated urologist at Spokane Urology injects local anesthesia to numb the area thoroughly. If you haven’t done so beforehand, your provider may shave the area for you.

After washing your skin with an antiseptic solution, your urologist makes one or two small incisions in your scrotum. They gently cut your vas deferens; they may even remove a small portion of it. Next, they simply tie both ends of your vas deferens with a surgical material and close up the incisions with dissolvable stitches.

It’s common to feel some pressure or tugging during your vasectomy. But because of the local numbing agent, at no time should you feel sharp pain. Your caring urologist at Spokane Urology talks with you throughout your procedure to ensure you’re entirely comfortable.

What is the recovery like after a vasectomy?

You should have someone drive you home after your vasectomy. For the rest of the day, you should relax and place an ice pack on your groin to minimize pain and swelling. You might be able to return to work the following day, but if you work in a strenuous field, like construction, your urologist may recommend about a week of decreased activity.

You should completely heal within one to two weeks. Even though you can continue having sexual intercourse as soon as you’re healed, you may still be fertile, as sperm can remain in your vas deferens.

It’s important to continue using other forms of birth control for at least two months or after 12 ejaculates, whichever comes first. Your urologist at Spokane Urology may recommend coming in after a couple of months for a semen analysis to test the effectiveness of your vasectomy.

Spokane Urology provides flexible scheduling for in-office vasectomy procedures. You can find out more information by booking an evaluation online or by calling the office today.