Vasectomy FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Vasectomy Surgery
Below are some frequently asked questions about vasectomy procedures. Educating yourself about this long-term method of birth control can help you during your vasectomy decision process.
Q. What is a vasectomy?
A. A vasectomy surgery is a permanent form of birth control. Simply put, the vas deferens are closed off to prevent sperm from leaving the body during ejaculation.
Q. How effective is a vasectomy?
A. A vasectomy is 99% effective.
Q. How soon can I return to work after a vasectomy?
A. Most patients can return to work several days after the vasectomy surgery. If your occupation requires heavy physical activity or extended driving please consult your physician for an appropriate estimate.
Q. When can I have sex again after the vasectomy?
A. You can have intercourse after the vasectomy procedure as soon as it's comfortable for you, which usually takes about four weeks. However, you can still cause a pregnancy until the sperm count is zero. Do not have unprotected sex until your semen has been tested and a zero sperm count has been confirmed.
Q. Will I stop making sperm after a vasectomy?
A. No, your testicles will continue to create sperm. After the vasectomy, unused sperm cells will be absorbed into your body instead of leaving in the semen. If you are debating whether or not to receive a vasectomy, please read our vasectomy decision process.
Q. Are there different types of vasectomies?
A. Yes, there is the traditional vasectomy, no-needle vasectomy, no-scalpel vasectomy, VasClip, laser vasectomy and more. We recommend a no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy, as it is the most pain-free option available.
Q. How effective is a vasectomy compared to tubal ligation?
A. A vasectomy is typically more effective than tubal ligation. The failure rate of a vasectomy is about 1% whereas the failure rate for tubal ligation is 2%. A vasectomy also offers additional benefits such as faster recovery times, fewer complications, and lower cost. To learn more about these procedures, view this chart comparing the vasectomy vs. tubal ligation.
Q. If vasectomies are the better procedure, why would someone choose tubal ligation instead?
A. Most often, a vasectomy is the best option for sterilization because it is less invasive, risky and costly compared to tubal ligation. However, couples occasionally choose tubal ligation because the female has better health insurance coverage or is more physically healthy than the male partner. Additionally, recent studies have revealed that receiving tubal ligation after child bearing can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
Q. Is it possible to reverse a vasectomy?
A. Yes, they can successfully be reversed. Dr. Bastuba is an expert vasectomy reversal specialist and has reversed vasectomies up to 40 years after the initial surgery. However, if you are not ready for a long-term method of sterilization, please review these vasectomy alternatives. A vasectomy surgery should be considered carefully before proceeding. Sperm banking prior to vasectomy is another alternative for patients who are not 100% sure of their choice.
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