About Male Sterilization

Male sterilization, or vasectomy, is a minor surgical procedure used to permanently prevent a man from impregnating a woman. The procedure is a popular birth control option for men who either don't want children or are sure that they are finished having children. The surgery only takes about 30 minutes, and can usually be performed in a urologist's office.

The Procedure

• During a vasectomy, the vas deferens--the tubes in the testicles that deposit sperm in the semen--are cut. When the tubes are cut, there is no way for sperm to reach the egg, preventing pregnancy. Before beginning the procedure, your doctor will numb your scrotum, the sac containing the testicles, with a local anesthetic. A small cut is then made in the scrotum and the vas deferens is pulled out slightly through the opening and cut. After the cut is made, each tube is either sewed shut or closed with heat or metal clamps. The procedure is repeated on the other side. Depending on the size of the incision, stitches may not be necessary.

No-Scalpel Vasectomy

• In this form of the procedure, the doctor makes a small puncture in the scrotum instead of an incision. No-scalpel vasectomy doesn't take as long as a traditional vasectomy, causes less pain and seems to have a lower rate of infection and bleeding.

Recovery

• Your doctor will recommend that you apply an ice pack to your scrotum for 24 hours after your vasectomy. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with any pain you may be experiencing, although you should avoid taking ibuprofen, ketoprofen or aspirin immediately following the surgery and two weeks prior to the surgery, as these medications can thin the blood and make bleeding more likely. Acetominophen is often recommended to treat pain following a vasectomy.

  You may notice some swelling or bruising of the scrotum for a few days after surgery, and you will need to stay off your feet during this time. If you normally wear boxer shorts, it is a good idea to wear underwear that provides more support, such as briefs or an athletic supporter, for one to two weeks after surgery. Exercise, heavy lifting and sex should be avoided for one week. You will usually be able to return to work within three days.

Effects

• The surgery will not be immediately effective, as some sperm will still linger in your reproductive system for a time. You must use another form of birth control for one to two months after surgery. You and your partner can stop using birth control when a semen sample shows that no sperm are present. You may need to provide several samples before a test shows that sperm are no longer present.

Warning

• Don't take baths or submerge your body in water for 48 hours following your vasectomy. If you do, your incision could be exposed to bacteria and become infected. Signs of infection include chills, fever, an increase in pain, drainage from the incision or swelling. If you notice any of these signs, call your doctor immediately.