FAQs
What is a vasectomy?
A vasectomy procedure involves cutting the vas deferens to prevent sperm from entering the ejaculate.
The vas deferens are the two tubes that carry sperm from the testicle to the glands at the base of the bladder called the seminal vesicles and the prostate gland. It is at this point that the sperm mixes with the seminal fluid to form fertile ejaculate. A vasectomy is typically performed via small incisions in the front of the scrotum.
It is important to note that the production of the male hormone testosterone or a man’s ability to perform sexually is not affected by this procedure.
How long does the procedure take?
Most will take about 15-20 minutes.
What are the types of vasectomy?
1. Open-Ended Vasectomy (what we do )
2. No Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV)
3. Traditional Vasectomy
Can I drive home after my vasectomy?
Yes.
Is there any special preparation I need to do for my vasectomy?
Yes. Please read our Preparing for your vasectomy.
Can I get my vasectomy reversed?
If you are asking yourself this question, you should really think twice about getting a vasectomy. Yes, vasectomies can be reversed. But you should consider this procedure as permanent contraception. Reversals are not 100%, very expensive (more than $5000) and are not covered by Medicare.
What are the risks of having a vasectomy?
We do everything we can to reduce the rate of complications but all surgical procedures have risks you should be aware of. A full list of potential complications are outlined fully in your consent form.
After your vasectomy most men will notice some level of:
Bruising: You may notice some bruising in the days after your vasectomy but this will usually disappear after about a week
Mild pain and swelling: This commonly settles a few days after your procedure
Less common potentials complications include:
A scrotal haematoma: This is a large bruise within the scrotum. You can reduce your chance of getting a haematoma greatly by following our instructions regarding lifting heavy objects in the days after the procedure. If you work in a job that requires heavy lifting make sure you get some time off work or ask for light duties
Infection: We try to reduce the chance of you getting an infection by adhering to strict infection control protocol. Most infections are mild and be treated with oral antibiotics.
Post Vasectomy Pain Syndrome (PVPS): This complication that can occur anytime after a vasectomy. There is little agreement on what causes PVPS. In most cases pain will resolve eventually but in rare cases specialist review and even additional surgery or reversal may be required to attempt to resolve the problem. These procedures are not always successful.
When will I know the procedure has worked?
The procedure does not work immediately and you must consider yourself fertile until we tell you the vasectomy was a success. We request you do a semen analysis at 3 months to confirm you are sterile. This will give you plenty of time to “clean out the pipes”!
When I can go back to work?
Its really important not to lift anything too heavy for the first week. If your job doesn’t involved much heavy lifting you can often go straight back to work, but if you are in a job with a lot of lifting you may wish to take some time off or request light duties. We can provide a medical certificate if you want to stay home
When can I start having sex again?
Most men can resume sexual activity after about 1 week.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can book directly through us.
Can I have my procedure done under sedation or a general anaesthetic?
At this stage we only offer vasectomy under local anaesthetic. For sedation or general anaesthetic we recommend you obtain a referral to a urologist.
How does recovery take place?
Like any minor surgical procedure, there are risks of bruising, discomfort and infection. These are generally mild, and can be minimised by resting, and wearing supportive underpants for a few days after the operation.
Simple measures such as frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel is a useful first measure, combined with paracetamol.
It is best to avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory medication for the first week after the operation, but NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and diclofenac can be used thereafter if there is any continuing discomfort.
If your work is very physical and involves heavy lifting or extreme movement, then you will need to go on light duties for a week after the vasectomy.
If you are desk based or quite sedentary in your work, then you should be able to return to work the day after having your vasectomy.
Try to avoid sitting for long periods, but avoid bike riding and contact sports for the first 2-3 weeks.
It is normal to experience a background aching feeling for one to two weeks post-vasectomy. It will eventually go away. Take Paracetamol ( with or without a little codeine) as required. If aching continues for over one month, you may be experiencing Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome and you should see us for a review. If there are no signs of infection, you can use anti-inflammatory medication (if no contraindications to taking this) for a week or two, which will help settle it down.