What Is a Vasectomy?

One of the most common and popular means for contraception around the world is vasectomy – a brief, surgical procedure used for male sterilization. A vasectomy is considered a permanent form of birth control, where a section of the vasa deferential (tubes that carry sperm) is removed above the testicle with the resulting ends tied shut. This procedure affects only the entrance of sperm into semen, so there are no side affects such as loss of libido or ability to have an erection or orgasm.

Who Requires a Vasectomy?

Any adult male who is looking for a permanent form of birth control is a candidate for a vasectomy. Urologists, general surgeons, and family practice physicians perform vasectomies. The key is to have your vasectomy performed by an experienced physician who does this procedure frequently: The more vasectomies your physician does the better he or she will be. Healthcare professionals need to stress that this is a permanent procedure, even though there are rare cases of reversals.

How Is a Vasectomy Performed?

During the Vasectomy procedure the physician will isolate the vas deferens in the scrotum and with a very small needle a medication will be injected to anesthetize the area. Once the area is without feeling, a single 1/4-inch incision is made over the scrotum and each vas deferens will be cut and cauterized. The procedure typically takes 15 minutes once the physician starts. Small stitches close the openings in the scrotum to end the procedure.