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Vasectomy |
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| >> Abortion >> Chlamydia Testing >> Female Sterilisation >> Vasectomy |
Vasectomy is one of the most reliable forms of contraception and is successful in over 99% of cases. 'Vasectomy' is the medical term for the operation which cuts and removes a small section from each of the two tubes (the vas) which carry sperm from the testes in the scrotum to the exterior - thus normally making you permanently sterile. It is one of the most successful forms of contraception available and, apart from the minor discomfort of the operation, is almost entirely free from complications. BenefitsThere are many benefits to vasectomy. The operation is simple and virtually free from all danger. There are no effects on masculinity, sexual drive or performance and, as the sperm only constitute a small proportion of the ejaculation, the normal amount of semen is still produced. Sexual enjoyment is unaffected. Indeed, many people say it is improved once the fear of pregnancy has been removed. However, the operation is not immediately effective and a reliable form of contraception must be used until you have submitted two specimens for testing and they are clear of sperm. Most occupations, except the very heaviest, can be resumed within a short time - usually after a restful weekend. Although failure is extremely rare and vasectomy is regarded as an excellent form of contraception, the operation does fail occasionally and this can occur at any time. What does the operation involve?A one-visit appointment for counselling and operation can be arranged, usually on a Friday afternoon/evening. You shouldn't have to wait more than 3 weeks for this. After the skin has been cleaned and a local anaesthetic administered, a small incision is made each side of the scrotum. The vas is located and a section of this tube is removed. Both ends are then closed with a stitch. The skin incisions are closed with dissolving sutures and a plastic spray dressing applied. The whole operation takes about 10 minutes and most patients complain of only minor discomfort. All surgery carries some element of risk but complications following a vasectomy are extremely rare. The most likely is a local infection indicated by inflammation and pain. This can be easily treated with antibiotics. The operation must be considered irreversible and you should not consider a vasectomy if you have any thoughts of having more children. If you do decide to have children at a later date, reversal has an unpredictable outcome. We regret we are unable to offer the operation under a general anaesthetic. Post-operative contraceptionBecause the operation is not immediately effective you must use a reliable form of contraception until you get the ‘all clear' letter. Patients do vary in the time it takes to clear; some are clear as soon as 16 weeks, while others take much longer. It is essential to continue intercourse, or masturbation, to remove the residue of sperm still in the system. When you are discharged from the Clinic you will be given an instruction leaflet and containers for you to submit two semen specimens. For more informationIf you would like to arrange an appointment or just want more information on vasectomy, please telephone the Vasectomy office on: 0121 449 0892 (Tuesday to Friday between 1030 - 1330) email: vasectomy@btconnect.com |
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