What Is a Vasectomy?
While birth control is often only thought of from the lenses of women, there are also birth control options available for men. The most popular of these is a vasectomy, a treatment that can be performed in a quick, outpatient setting. During this procedure, the tube that provides the sperm supply to the semen is severed, tremendously lowering the risk for unwanted pregnancy. Our team at Lawrence Family Practice Center is committed to providing the most advanced care to individuals and families throughout Lawrence, KS and the surrounding area. If you think a vasectomy could be a great fit for you and your future goals, contact our office to book an appointment and learn more.
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What Are the Benefits of a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy procedure at Lawrence Family Practice Center allows men to take control of their birth control responsibilities with benefits, including:
- Provides a nearly 100% effective method of preventing pregnancy
- Short recovery time
- Safe, effective, and minimally invasive procedure
- Allows for spontaneity in sexual activity without the worry of contraception
- No significant long-term side effects
- Does not affect hormone levels or sexual function
- More cost-effective compared to other birth control methods over time
How Is a Vasectomy Performed?
There are two primary techniques when it comes to performing a vasectomy: a conventional vasectomy and no-scalpel vasectomy. While a conventional vasectomy requires two small incisions into the scrotum, a no-scalpel vasectomy makes a tiny hole into the scrotum to access the vas deferens. The technique used for your vasectomy may depend on your overall health and personal preferences. One of our highly trained physicians can meet with you to discuss the different types of vasectomy techniques, how they vary, and the benefits of both.
What Is Recovery Like Following A Vasectomy?
After your vasectomy, you will be sent home, but someone will need to drive you. You may expect some bruising, swelling, and pain in and around the scrotum, but these effects should dissipate within several days. In most cases, men who get at vasectomy at Lawrence Family Practice Center will have 2 – 3 days of downtime, after which they can resume everyday, non-strenuous activities. You will likely be asked to refrain from sex for about a week, and you should still use a form of birth control when you resume having sex, as sperm may still be present in the semen for a period following the procedure. In the weeks or months after the treatment, our Lawrence, KS team may ask you to come in for a semen analysis to confirm that no sperm are present.
Vasectomy FAQ
Does a vasectomy hurt?
No, it doesn't. The treatment area is completely numbed with a local anesthetic before we begin — so patients do not feel any pain. Patients may experience a slight pinch as the needle injects the anesthetic but nothing after. Some patients have reported a slight tugging or pulling sensation during the procedure, but it typically causes no discomfort. When the procedure is complete, there may be minor bruising, tenderness, or swelling, but these typically go away within a week or less.
Can a vasectomy be reversed?
Yes, it can. However, the longer patients wait to have a vasectomy reversed, the lower the chances for a completely successful reversal and the more difficult it can become to have children.
How long does a vasectomy take?
Most vasectomies are very quick and are often able to be completed in 30 minutes or less.
Why do I need a couple days or more of downtime?
You will likely be sore following the vasectomy, and getting back to work or everyday activities quickly following the procedure runs the risk of compromising your results.
How effective is a vasectomy?
Vasectomies are very effective, with most achieving a 99% success rate at preventing pregnancies.
EFFECTIVE MALE BIRTH CONTROL
A vasectomy is a routine procedure that is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy for the long term. If you and your partner do not wish to seek any future or any following pregnancies, this minimally invasive procedure can help you enjoy a calm, carefree sex life and offer effective birth control. Contact our team at Lawrence Family Practice Center to learn more and to schedule your consultation.
