Vasectomy
Vasectomy is a simple and effective surgical procedure that allows men to no longer have to worry about contraception. Considered a permanent contraceptive method, it is increasingly chosen by men who no longer wish to have children. Here is everything you need to know about this procedure, its advantages, its disadvantages and how it is carried out.
What is vasectomy ?
Vasectomy is a procedure that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. By interrupting this passage, sperm can no longer mix with seminal fluid, making the man sterile.
Please note: vasectomy does not affect the production of male hormones, nor libido, erection, or ejaculation. The volume of semen remains virtually unchanged, because sperm represent only a tiny part of seminal fluid.
Who is it for ?
Vasectomy is recommended for men who:
Do not want to have any more children.
Are looking for a permanent method of birth control.
Want to avoid the side effects of other birth control methods.
Are in good general health.
What techniques are used ?
There are two main techniques for performing a vasectomy: the classic vasectomy and the no-scalpel vasectomy. In the classic method, the surgeon makes one or two small incisions in the scrotum to cut, ligate, or cauterize the vas deferens. The less invasive no-scalpel technique uses a special instrument to pierce the skin without an incision, reducing the risk of complications and speeding up recovery. Both methods are performed under local anesthesia, last 15 to 30 minutes, and aim to block the passage of sperm, rendering the man permanently sterile.
How does the procedure take place ?
The procedure for a vasectomy is simple and quick. The procedure, performed under local anesthesia, generally lasts 15 to 30 minutes. The surgeon accesses the vas deferens through a small incision (classic vasectomy) or by piercing the skin without an incision (no-scalpel technique), then cuts, ligates or cauterizes them to block the passage of sperm. After the procedure, the patient can go home the same day and resume light activity after 2 to 3 days.
What type of anesthesia ?
Vasectomy is usually performed under local anesthesia, which means that only the scrotal area is numbed to prevent pain during the procedure. The patient remains awake and conscious throughout the procedure. In some cases, regional anesthesia (numbing a larger area) or light sedation may be offered for anxious patients. General anesthesia is rarely used unless there is a specific medical need. Local anesthesia is preferred for its simplicity, safety, and quick recovery.
What are the advantages ?
Vasectomy offers several major advantages: it is a definitive and highly effective contraceptive method (99% success rate), which frees couples from the need to use other means of contraception. The procedure is quick (15 to 30 minutes), minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia, allowing recovery in a few days. It does not affect libido, erection or ejaculation, and does not modify the production of male hormones. In addition, it represents a practical alternative to female contraception, relieving the partner of the side effects of hormonal methods. Finally, it is economical in the long term, because it no longer requires contraceptive expenses after the procedure.
What are the risks and disadvantages ?
Vasectomy, while safe, does have some risks and drawbacks. It is irreversible in most cases, and while reversal techniques exist, they are expensive and do not guarantee a return to fertility. Surgical risks include infections, bruising, or persistent pain in the scrotal area. In addition, vasectomy does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), always requiring the use of condoms if there is a risk.
Convalescence and postoperative care
After a vasectomy, recovery is usually quick and easy. Most men can go home the same day and resume light activity after 2 to 3 days. It is recommended to avoid strenuous physical exertion and sexual intercourse for 7 to 10 days to allow for proper healing. Mild pain, swelling, or bruising in the scrotum may occur, but this usually resolves within a few days.
Follow-up is essential to ensure the effectiveness of the vasectomy. A spermogram should be performed after approximately 3 months (or after 15 to 20 ejaculations) to confirm the absence of sperm in the semen. Until the absence of sperm is confirmed, another method of birth control should be used to prevent unwanted pregnancy. If pain persists or complications occur, a doctor's consultation is necessary.
In conclusion
Vasectomy is a safe, effective and permanent method of contraception for men who no longer wish to have children. Simple and quick, it offers a practical alternative to female contraception. However, it is irreversible and requires careful consideration before making a decision. A consultation with a urologist or surgeon is essential to discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives.