A vasectomy is an operation that's a type of birth control for men. About 1 or 2 couples out of 1,000 get pregnant the first year after the procedure.
How does it work?
Your doctor blocks the two tubes ("Was deferens") that sperm pass through. That way, your body absorbs the sperm, and you shouldn't be able to get your partner pregnant during sex.
A vasectomy may take about 30 minutes. You usually get it done at your doctor's office or at a surgery center.
• You're awake during it. Your doctor gives you medicine that numbs your scrotum.
• He'll either make two small cuts or a tiny hole to reach your sperm-carrying tubes.
• He may remove a piece from each tube, then sear, tie off, or clamp the cut ends.
While you're recovering, call the doctor if you run a fever, have swelling that gets worse, have trouble peeing, or notice bleeding or a lump.
• Rest -- keep your physical activity light.
• Use an ice pack to ease pain and swelling.
• Wear snug underwear or a jock strap for support.
• Use condoms until your doctor tells you there's no sperm left in your ejaculations.
• He'll check samples that you give him 2-3 months after the procedure.
A vasectomy is meant to be permanent. Can you get it reversed?
Sometimes. But the surgery to do it is complicated, costly, and it doesn't always work.
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