For people who are certain they do not want more children, a vasectomy is one of the safest and most effective forms of birth control available. Yet many men still have questions about what the procedure involves and how it might affect their health.

To help answer common questions, CU Medicine urologist Dr. Jeff Morrison explains what patients should know before considering a vasectomy.

“There’s a lot of myths out there about vasectomy, but in reality it’s a really safe and effective procedure,” said Dr. Morrison. 

What is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure that prevents pregnancy by blocking sperm from entering semen.

During the procedure, a physician cuts or seals the vas deferens, the small tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. Once these tubes are closed, sperm can no longer mix with semen during ejaculation.

Your body continues to produce sperm after a vasectomy. The sperm cells simply break down and are absorbed naturally by the body.

A vasectomy is considered a permanent form of birth control and is typically recommended for people who are confident they do not want to father children in the future. 

What Can Someone Expect During a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is usually performed as an outpatient procedure in a clinic or outpatient setting. According to Dr. Morrison, the procedure is relatively quick and straightforward.

The vasectomy procedure typically involves the following steps:

• Local anesthesia is used to numb the area.
• A small puncture or incision is made in the scrotum.
• The vas deferens are identified and divided.
• The procedure takes 10 to 20 minutes.

The incision is relatively small, and some providers use a technique called the no-scalpel method.

“I use both scalpel and no-scalpel techniques,” Dr. Morrison said. “Both result in a small incision or hole, and healing usually goes quite well with either approach.”

Does a Vasectomy Hurt?

During the procedure, patients should feel little to no pain because the area is numbed with local anesthesia.

“During the procedure, some guys like to put on music or a podcast and kind of zone out,” said Dr. Morrison.

It is common afterward for patients to experience mild soreness, swelling or bruising for a few days. Many patients describe the sensation as similar to a minor strain or pressure in the groin.

Over-the-counter pain medication, rest and ice packs are usually enough to manage discomfort.

What is Recovery from a Vasectomy Like?

Recovery from a vasectomy is typically straightforward. Patients should limit physical activity for the first 24 to 48 hours. During the first two days, icing the groin and resting, either lying down or sitting, can help reduce swelling. Short trips around the house are fine, but most of the time should be spent resting.

After the first two days, patients can gradually return to more activity but should avoid sex, heavy lifting and other strenuous physical activity for about a week. Wearing supportive underwear during the healing process can also help with comfort.

“It’s really important patients know that a vasectomy doesn’t work immediately,” Dr. Morrison said. “Millions of sperm can remain in the ducts for several weeks, and it’s important to get a semen analysis two to three months after the procedure.”

The provider’s office can help schedule the analysis. Patients must continue using another form of birth control until a follow-up semen test confirms that sperm are no longer present.

Can a Vasectomy be Reversed?

Vasectomy reversal is possible but more complex than a simple vasectomy. “No one should go into a vasectomy if they plan to reverse it,” said Dr. Morrison.

Vasectomy reversal involves reconnecting the vas deferens so sperm can travel again into semen. While many reversals restore sperm to the semen, pregnancy rates after reversal vary and decline the longer it has been since the original procedure. 

Get Vasectomy Care

For people who are finished growing their families or do not want children, a vasectomy can provide a safe, reliable and low-maintenance form of birth control.

“Vasectomy is a quick outpatient procedure with a short recovery time and an excellent safety record,” said Dr. Morrison. “For many patients, it offers peace of mind and a highly effective way to prevent unintended pregnancy.”

Anyone considering a vasectomy should talk with a urologist to discuss their goals, medical history and long-term family planning.

Learn more about Jeff Morrison, MD and schedule an appointment at CU Medicine Urology – South Denver at Highlands Ranch Specialty Care Center by calling (303) 265-3940.