Vasectomy

Introduction

Vasectomy is a safe and effective minor surgical procedure. It is estimated that vasectomy is performed in more than one-half million men per year in the United States, and is a method of permanent contraception in approximately 7% of all married couples.

Local Anesthesia for Vasectomy

In most cases, vasectomy is performed in the outpatient setting using local anesthesia, and men return home shortly after the procedure. It is recommended that the patient wear a scrotal support for a period of time following the procedure. A post-operative examination will be performed one week after vasectomy in the office.

Important Facts

Vasectomy must be considered a permanent decision, and patients are encouraged to carefully address any doubts that they may have regarding their desire for additional children.

Following the vasectomy procedure, sterility is not immediate. It is essential to continue some other method of birth control until the sperm count is zero. The sperm count is measured in the physicians office about 3 months after vasectomy.