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 conventional 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.

What's the difference between a no-scalpel vasectomy and a traditional vasectomy?

The primary difference between a traditional vasectomy and a no-scalpel vasectomy is the method of accessing the vas deferens. These ducts carry sperm from your testicles.

During a no-scalpel vasectomy, the Spokane Urology team holds the vas deferens with an external clamp. They use a needle to create a hole in your scrotum.

Through the hole, your provider pulls out the ducts to cut, burn, or tie them off. After treating the ducts, your physician replaces the vas deferens to their original place.

How long does it take to recover from a no-scalpel vasectomy?

Recovery from a no-scalpel vasectomy is relatively simple. You can expect to have some discomfort or pain right after your procedure that’s treatable with over-the-counter medications.

The small needle holes heal on their own. However, you’ll need to change the dressing over the treatment area daily to prevent an infection from developing. If you have swelling, you can use ice packs to reduce it for the first few days after your procedure.

You’ll need to avoid having sex for about a week as your skin heals. The team at Spokane Urology might advise you to avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting for at least a week.

What are the benefits of a non-scalpel vasectomy?

No-scalpel vasectomies are typically faster than a traditional vasectomy. The team at Spokane Urology does the procedure in the office. You can expect to go home soon after it’s done.

To find out if a no-scalpel vasectomy is the right choice for you, call Spokane Urology or book a consultation online today.

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.