What is a Vasectomy and How is it Done?

A vasectomy, a highly effective method of birth control, is performed to prevent unwanted pregnancies. It prevents male sperm from being present in the ejaculate. While vasectomy is a permanent form of birth control, it does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Men who undergo vasectomy do not experience any loss of sexual function. This procedure allows the person to ejaculate normally during intercourse, even though the testicles continue to produce sperm, which is prevented from exiting the body due to the surgical intervention. The sperm in the testicles cannot reach the uterus or fallopian tubes, thus preventing potential pregnancy. After the vasectomy, there are no issues with erection or ejaculation, and the individual can continue their normal sexual life. The vasectomy procedure, which is simple and quick, can be done under local anesthesia, and the patient can go home immediately afterward without requiring an overnight hospital stay.

What is a Vasectomy?

Vasectomy, a surgical procedure that does not cause any sexual problems, is a form of male sterilization. It is performed by cutting the tubes, known as vas deferens, that carry sperm from the testicles to the penis. Worldwide, vasectomy is performed in about 7% of cases and can be reversed with a 50% chance of success if the person changes their mind. Known also as surgical sterilization, vasectomy can be performed under local or general anesthesia. By cutting the sperm ducts, sperm can no longer travel from the testicles to the penis, preventing pregnancy with nearly 100% effectiveness.

The simplest answer to the question “What is a vasectomy?” is that it is a form of male sterilization, but this often leads people to believe that it ends sexual life. However, vasectomy only prevents sperm from being released in the ejaculate. Thus, sexual desire, pleasure, erection, and ejaculation remain normal. The semen produced during ejaculation looks the same, though laboratory tests would reveal that it contains no sperm. Sperm produced and stored in the testicles are naturally eliminated once they reach the end of their lifespan.

After undergoing a vasectomy, there is no change in sexual function, and the quantity and appearance of the fluid in the ejaculate remain the same. Legally, all men over the age of 18 can undergo this procedure. If desired, the vas deferens can be reconnected after some time, depending on the time that has passed since the procedure. Therefore, if someone decides to regain their fertility within a few years, the procedure can be reversed, but success chances are much lower if the decision is made after many years. For this reason, alternative birth control methods are recommended for men under 35 seeking a vasectomy.

How is a Vasectomy Performed?

The testicles, responsible for sperm and testosterone production, are located within a skin pouch known as the scrotum. Sperm cells are formed through the differentiation of stem cells in the seminiferous tubules inside the testicles. The immature sperm cells then travel to the epididymis, located just behind the testicle, where they mature and gain motility. From there, sperm travel through the vas deferens, which is thicker and leads to the ejaculatory duct. During ejaculation, seminal fluid produced by the prostate mixes with sperm to form semen, which is then expelled.

When a person requests a vasectomy, they are usually operated on under local anesthesia. During the procedure, small incisions are made in the scrotum, and the vas deferens tubes are accessed, removed, tied, and then cut. The channels are then cauterized with a device, preventing sperm from passing through. In most cases, the incision site heals naturally without the need for stitches, and no scarring is left on the testicles.

The answer to the commonly asked question, “How long does a vasectomy operation take?” is approximately 15 minutes. There is no pain or discomfort during this small procedure, and the person rests for a while before being sent home. After surgery, they can return to their daily life if they wish, but it is important to avoid strenuous activities, heavy exercises, and excessive strain. It is recommended that the testicles be supported for the first 24 hours after surgery, with cold compresses applied at intervals. Since sperm cannot reach the semen after the vasectomy, pregnancy is prevented. The vasectomy provides nearly 100% protection, with only a 1% chance of pregnancy.

After the procedure, no sexual problems occur, and a one-week sexual abstinence period is advised. After this period, the individual can return to their normal sexual life, but they should wait about 3 months before relying on it for birth control. During this time, using other birth control methods like condoms can help prevent unwanted pregnancies. Some pain and swelling after the procedure are normal and usually disappear within a few days. Compared to other birth control methods, vasectomy is more affordable, quicker, and simpler. However, the cost of the procedure can vary depending on the clinic, the quality of materials used, and the surgeon’s experience. Therefore, when researching prices, one should consider not only the clinic’s technology and sterilized environment but also the surgeon’s expertise.

Who is Suitable for a Vasectomy?

According to the law, any man over the age of 18 who is informed about vasectomy can undergo the procedure. Since it is a permanent and lifelong method of birth control, careful consideration should be given before making the decision. Couples who already have as many children as they want or do not want to have any more children may consider vasectomy after evaluating other birth control methods. People whose partners are approaching menopause or are no longer fertile, and those who do not wish to take responsibility for preventing pregnancy, are also suitable candidates for vasectomy. If desired, sperm freezing can be done before the procedure for those who may want children in the future. This way, the frozen sperm can be thawed and used for assisted reproduction methods like in vitro fertilization if the person decides to have children later. Additionally, since sperm production does not stop after a vasectomy, healthy sperm can be obtained from the testicles using biopsy methods. Reversing the procedure surgically is also possible, but the chances of pregnancy are much lower after the reversal. The likelihood of achieving pregnancy through natural means is about 50%, so it is very difficult to have children naturally after the procedure. Therefore, the decision should be made carefully before opting for a vasectomy. After the procedure, if the individual later wishes to have children, various assisted reproductive techniques can help them achieve pregnancy.