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Vasectomy

If you have questions about having a vasectomy or would like to make an appointment, please call 315 464-1500.

We offer non-surgical and surgical options and deliver care with expertise in a patient-centered atmosphere. Men in Central New York and the surrounding area choose Upstate Urology to provide both time-tested and cutting edge treatments for their urologic problems.

What is a vasectomy?

Sperm passes from the testicles to the penis in tubes called the vas deferens. A vasectomy is a surgery that blocks these tubes. This makes a man unable to make a woman pregnant.

Reasons for Procedure

A vasectomy is done as permanent birth control. This option is for men who are sure they will not want to father a child in the future. There is a surgery to reverse a vasectomy. However, the reversal is not always successful.

Possible Complications

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

  • Infection
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Bleeding
  • Chronic pain in and around the testicles
  • Sperm granuloma—lumps caused by an immune system response to sperm leaking from the reproductive organs
  • Ability to still make a woman pregnant

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as:

  • Smoking
  • Local infections
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Prior surgery in that area

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Your doctor may do the following:

  • Physical exam
  • Medical history
  • Review of medications
  • Discuss the effects of this procedure

Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.

In the days leading up to your procedure:

  • Arrange for a ride to and from the procedure.
  • Wear comfortable clothing.
  • Take any medication as ordered by your doctor. A mild sedative before the procedure may be advised.
  • Shower before leaving home.
  • You may be asked to trim your scrotal hair.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia will be used. It will numb the area. You may also be given medication to help you relax.

How Long Will It Take?

Conventional vasectomies take about 30 minutes. No-scalpel procedures take about 20 minutes.

Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. You can expect some soreness for a few days. Take pain medications as directed by your doctor.

Post-procedure Care

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

  • Do not lift heavy objects or participate in sports for 2-3 days.
  • Ask your doctor when you can resume sexual activity.
  • Use another form of birth control until tests show that there is no sperm in your semen
  • No ejaculation for one first week after the vasectomy.

A vasectomy may not make you sterile right away. Tests will be done to look for any sperm in the semen. These tests are done to make sure that the procedure was effective.

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