Vasectomy

The operation is performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, sometimes under general anesthesia, when a hospitalization is necessary.

With the help of a small cut, the vas deferens are then tied and cut, preventing the sperm from reaching the ejaculate. The wound will heal within 14 days. Scrotal swelling may persist for the first two days.

After the procedure, sperm no longer comes out of the testicles and the man is therefore infertile. Sperm continue to form, but gradually degenerate and are replaced by new ones. The testicles continue to make male sex hormones (testosterone) and the man is thus not castrated.

However, the procedure is irreversible and after it is performed, natural conception is no longer possible. Therefore, a thorough consultation with a urologist and careful consideration of the operation is necessary.

After the procedure, it is necessary to check the spermiogram (usually the 4th and 6th week) to determine the number of sperm, because sterility does not occur immediately after the procedure, but only after about 2 months.

Libido, erection and sexual performance are not affected by this procedure, sexual intercourse is recommended only after 7 days, and for the first 2 months (until the spermiograms are checked) it is necessary to use contraception (the first ejaculations still contain sperm remnants, a small amount of blood may also be present).

The ideal candidate is a man who is no longer thinking about having another child and wants safe and reliable contraception, while maintaining regular sexual activity with a permanent sexual partner.

Poor candidate is a man who is still planning for offspring. Since the procedure does not protect against the sexually transmitted diseases, the use of condoms is more recommended for men with multiple partners.