Vasectomy is a sterilization procedure or permanent contraception in men that is done by cutting or tying the sperm ducts. This action prevents sperm from mixing with semen released during ejaculation, thus preventing pregnancy.
This procedure is relatively low-complication, has a short recovery time, and is very effective in preventing pregnancy. Vasectomy can be performed on men of all ages. However, doctors generally do not recommend this procedure for men who are under 30 or have not had children, unless there is a specific reason.
The doctor will conduct an initial evaluation, such as asking about medical history and conducting a physical examination, to understand the patient's overall condition before the vasectomy procedure is performed.
In this article, you will learn how a vasectomy procedure is performed, what its benefits are, and the risks or complications that may arise after the procedure.
How is the Vasectomy Procedure?
This procedure is performed by a urologist using local anesthesia in the scrotum and testicles. This action aims to cut off the sperm ducts, so that sperm cannot mix with semen. In this way, even though ejaculation still occurs, pregnancy can be avoided.
Vasectomy procedures generally take 10–30 minutes and are performed on an outpatient basis. There are two main techniques for this procedure:
1. Conventional Technique
In this technique, the doctor will first inject a local anesthetic into the testicles and scrotum to relieve pain. After that, one or two small incisions are made in the skin of the scrotum to reach the sperm ducts on both sides.
After that, the sperm duct will be cut, then the ends are closed with stitches or through a freezing process using a cauterizing tool ( diathermy ). After the procedure is complete, the incision in the skin will be stitched back up.
This technique is quite common and effective, but usually causes slightly more pain and swelling than non-incision methods.
2. No-cut technique
This technique is a less invasive method. The procedure still begins with local anesthesia in the testicles and scrotum. The doctor will clamp the sperm duct through the surface of the scrotum skin, then make a small hole using a special tool without having to make an incision.
Through this small hole, the sperm duct is pulled out, cut, and then the ends are sealed using a cautery tool (a small needle that is charged with electricity to burn and close the duct).
This procedure does not require large incisions, so it generally does not require stitches, causes less bleeding and pain, and speeds up recovery.
What are the Benefits of a Vasectomy Procedure?
The vasectomy procedure has a number of benefits that make it a permanent birth control option for many couples. Here are some of them:
- Very effective in preventing pregnancy. Vasectomy has a success rate of up to 99% in preventing pregnancy, making it one of the most reliable methods of contraception.
- Does not affect sexual function. Vasectomy does not affect sexual desire, ability to have an erection, ejaculation, or orgasm. Men can still have a normal sexual life after this procedure.
- The risk of complications is relatively low. Vasectomy is a relatively easy medical procedure with a low chance of complications and side effects. However, there is still a possibility of minor side effects such as pain or swelling which are usually temporary.
So, What Are the Risks of a Vasectomy Procedure?
Although vasectomy is a relatively safe procedure with a low complication rate, there are still some risks of side effects that may occur after this procedure is performed.
Here are some risks to be aware of:
- Incision site infection. The incision site can become infected, although this is rare.
- Hematoma (blood clot in the scrotum). Blood can collect in the scrotum and cause swelling and pain.
- Testicular discomfort. Some men may experience a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the testicles for a while after the procedure.
- Sperm granuloma. Occurs when sperm leaks from a cut duct and causes an inflammatory reaction, forming a hard, harmless lump.
- Hydrocele. A condition where fluid builds up around the testicles, causing swelling in the scrotum.
- Spermatocele. A benign cyst that develops in the epididymis, which is the connecting tube between the testicles and the sperm ducts.
If you are planning to undergo a vasectomy procedure, it is best to consult a urologist first. Everyone has different health conditions, so a medical examination and advice are needed to determine whether this procedure is right and safe for you.
Article written by dr. Meky Tanjung, Sp.B – FinaCS (General Surgery Specialist Doctor, EMC Cikarang & Pulomas Hospital).