Vasectomy Long-Term Side Effects

A vasectomy is a relatively simple, low-risk surgical procedure that prevents men from being able to father any children. A vasectomy involves cutting or blocking the tubes that carry sperm into a man's semen, thus preventing semen from being ejaculated. A vasectomy is generally considered permanent; however, reversals can be performed.
In rare circumstances, complications occur after a vasectomy and sometimes long-term side effects will be present.

Pain

• In most cases, the pain associated with a vasectomy is present for a brief amount of time and can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications. In a few cases, the pain can be severe and persistent, and may require injections to relieve the pain or a surgical correction.

Hematomas

• Hematomas, which are swellings filled with blood, are also rare and many times correct themselves. However, if some instances surgery may be required to drain the hematoma.

Granulomas

• The leakage of sperm from the cut tubes can cause granulomas to occur. A granuloma is a mass of inflamed granulation tissue. Most often this condition improves on its own, but in rare instances surgery may be needed to treat the problem.

Sexual Dysfunction

• Loss of sexual desire or the erectile dysfunction sometimes occur after a vasectomy; however, there is no physical reason why this should be the case. Thus, the problem may be emotional rather than a direct effect of the procedure.

Major Complications

• Serious complications are very rare. Warning signs of such a complication are high fever (over 100 degrees F), extreme pain, excessive swelling, and blood or puss coming from the incision site. If a man experiences any or all over this symptoms, he should contact his doctor right away.