Vasectomy
Vasectomy is an effective and permanent form of contraception. Vasectomy is only for people who have decided that they do not want children or further children in the future. It is considered a permanent method of contraception as reversal is a complicated operation which is not always successful.
WHAT IS A VASECTOMY?
Vasectomy is a small procedure to cut the vas deferens. This is the tube that takes the sperm from the testes to the penis. Once the vas deferens is cut, sperm can no longer get into the semen that is ejaculated. After the vasectomy sperm is still made as before in the testes but the sperm cannot get past the blocked vas deferens and is absorbed into the body.
HOW IS A VASECTOMY DONE?
The vasectomy is usually performed under a local anaesthetic but can sometimes be done under a general anaesthetic. Local anaesthetic is injected into a small area of skin on either side of the scrotum above the testes. A small incision is then made to these numbed areas of skin. Approximately a 2 cm segment of vas deferens is excised from each side and sent to pathology for confirmation and testing. Diathermy is used (electrical current that stops bleeding). Dissolvable stitches are used.
Before the vasectomy
Please shave your scrotal area and wear two pairs of firm fitting underpants. We recommend you take two Panadol or Panadeine 2 hours before the procedure.
After the vasectomy
There is usually some discomfort, bruising and swelling for a few days afterwards. This normally goes away quickly. The discomfort can be helped by wearing tight-fitting underpants day and night for a week or so after the operation. It is also best not to do heavy work, exercise or lifting for 4 – 7 days after the vasectomy. We recommend not travelling a long distance for 24 hours after your procedure. If you are concerned regarding any swelling/bruising or have any questions post procedure please contact: Mackay Surgical Group 49429 588 or if outside business hours the Mater After Hours Mackay 49655 444 (please note a fee will be charged) or alternatively you can contact 13 Health (13 432584).
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
As with all procedures there are some risks, most men have no problems after a vasectomy. Problems are uncommon but include the following:f
HOW RELIABLE IS VASECTOMY
The operation is highly successful and in general a complication free way of rendering sterility. To ensure the procedure has been successful it is the patient’s responsibility to perform post vasectomy semen analysis. Some sperm survive in the upstream part of the vas deferens for several weeks after vasectomy. These can get into the semen for a while after the operation. Twelve weeks after the vasectomy you will need to produce a semen test. These are looked at under the microscope to check for sperm. If theses have no sperm in them, you will be given the all clear. You may need to repeat the test several times until the all clear can be given as it may take a few months before the semen is free from sperm.
After your vasectomy and until the all clear is given following your semen analysis results - YOU STILL NEED TO USE ADDITIONAL CONTRACEPTION.
The risks will be discussed during your pre-operative consutlation and are listed on the surgical consent form.
Dr Ashraf performs the vasectomy procedures at the Mackay Specialist Day Hospital.
You will require a consultation with Dr Ashraf prior to your vasectomy. You will need a current referral from your General Practitioner. To schedule an appointment or for further information please contact Mackay Surgical on: (07) 49429 588
For more information on the Mackay Specialist Day Hospital please visit: http://www.msdh.com.au/
WHAT IS A VASECTOMY?
Vasectomy is a small procedure to cut the vas deferens. This is the tube that takes the sperm from the testes to the penis. Once the vas deferens is cut, sperm can no longer get into the semen that is ejaculated. After the vasectomy sperm is still made as before in the testes but the sperm cannot get past the blocked vas deferens and is absorbed into the body.
HOW IS A VASECTOMY DONE?
The vasectomy is usually performed under a local anaesthetic but can sometimes be done under a general anaesthetic. Local anaesthetic is injected into a small area of skin on either side of the scrotum above the testes. A small incision is then made to these numbed areas of skin. Approximately a 2 cm segment of vas deferens is excised from each side and sent to pathology for confirmation and testing. Diathermy is used (electrical current that stops bleeding). Dissolvable stitches are used.
Before the vasectomy
Please shave your scrotal area and wear two pairs of firm fitting underpants. We recommend you take two Panadol or Panadeine 2 hours before the procedure.
After the vasectomy
There is usually some discomfort, bruising and swelling for a few days afterwards. This normally goes away quickly. The discomfort can be helped by wearing tight-fitting underpants day and night for a week or so after the operation. It is also best not to do heavy work, exercise or lifting for 4 – 7 days after the vasectomy. We recommend not travelling a long distance for 24 hours after your procedure. If you are concerned regarding any swelling/bruising or have any questions post procedure please contact: Mackay Surgical Group 49429 588 or if outside business hours the Mater After Hours Mackay 49655 444 (please note a fee will be charged) or alternatively you can contact 13 Health (13 432584).
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
As with all procedures there are some risks, most men have no problems after a vasectomy. Problems are uncommon but include the following:f
- Small risk of wound infection or haematoma
- Bruising around the operation site is sometimes quite marked, but will settle in a week or so
- Rarely, sperm may leak into the scrotum and form swelling
- Dull ache in the scrotum for a few weeks following the vasectomy.
HOW RELIABLE IS VASECTOMY
The operation is highly successful and in general a complication free way of rendering sterility. To ensure the procedure has been successful it is the patient’s responsibility to perform post vasectomy semen analysis. Some sperm survive in the upstream part of the vas deferens for several weeks after vasectomy. These can get into the semen for a while after the operation. Twelve weeks after the vasectomy you will need to produce a semen test. These are looked at under the microscope to check for sperm. If theses have no sperm in them, you will be given the all clear. You may need to repeat the test several times until the all clear can be given as it may take a few months before the semen is free from sperm.
After your vasectomy and until the all clear is given following your semen analysis results - YOU STILL NEED TO USE ADDITIONAL CONTRACEPTION.
The risks will be discussed during your pre-operative consutlation and are listed on the surgical consent form.
Dr Ashraf performs the vasectomy procedures at the Mackay Specialist Day Hospital.
You will require a consultation with Dr Ashraf prior to your vasectomy. You will need a current referral from your General Practitioner. To schedule an appointment or for further information please contact Mackay Surgical on: (07) 49429 588
For more information on the Mackay Specialist Day Hospital please visit: http://www.msdh.com.au/