Tag: Vasectomy Reversal

What are the risks of vasectomy?

You have all the children you want and have decided not to have any more. You can now enjoy a sex life with your partner without worrying about pregnancy if you opt for an effective method of contraception. There is no form of male contraception more reliable than a vasectomy, so is it the right decision for you?

Choosing a competent, experienced surgeon for your vasectomy procedure

If you’ve made the decision, what must you do to improve the success of your vasectomy and minimize the risk of complications? You must make sure it’s done by a qualified and experienced surgeon. When a vasectomy is performed correctly by a skilled and experienced physician, only about 1 in 1,000 vasectomies may fail to prevent sperm reaching the semen. But when done by a doctor who performs less than 50 vasectomies a year, the likelihood of failure is as high as 10-17 percent or more.

How are vasectomies done?

Your sperm is generated in the testes then stored in the epididymis, a sac adjacent to the testes. The sperm is driven through the shoestring-sized tube known as the vas deferens, about 15 inches long, by a whip-like motion of a tail. Because the vas deferens is connected to the prostate gland that produces semen and also with the seminal vesicles located near the bladder, sperm is able to find its way into the semen to reach the ova after an ejaculation, causing a pregnancy. Failure of sperm to reach the semen means a pregnancy won’t occur.

To conduct a vasectomy, a surgeon kneads the scrotum tenderly until the vas deferens are located — a process similar to a guy looking for a tie-string that has withdrawn into his sweatpants’ waistband. Once the doctor finds the vas, a needle is used to poke a hole in the scrotum before tiny clamps are applied to draw out a small portion of the vas. Then the surgeon cuts, closes or inactivates the two clipped ends of the tubes so sperm won’t get out of them.

There are a number of techniques for achieving this, but the best method currently is the intraluminal cauterization and fascial interposition, That is a technique involving the slicing of the vas in two, scarring the inside (lumina) of the vas using a heated needle, then pulling up the fascia (tissue that surrounds the tube) and clamping or suturing it over the vas end. With the procedure completed, you are ready to return home the same day and take a few days off work to recover.

Fascial interposition improves vasectomy success

During the vasectomy procedure, the doctor sews up the tubes to prevent “recanalization,” which may occur if microscopic channels develop between the tubes’ cut ends. And when recanalization happens, sperm may pass through micro-channels and get into semen, leading to a failure of vasectomy.

When the ends are only clipped but not cauterized up to 1-in-300 men can still get their mates pregnant after a vasectomy. In fact, according to one study of 14,000 men who had undergone a vasectomy, there were six pregnancies and up to 10 percent of men had significant numbers of sperm in semen months after their vasectomy.

However, with the fascial interposition technique, the surgeon puts tissue between the cut ends, which acts as a double zip and lock. The result is that pregnancy rates drop to 1-in-7,000 and only about one vasectomy may be redone per year. Nevertheless, the skill and experience of the urologist conducting the vasectomy still remains the most critical factor for success and minimal complications.

Improving vasectomy success

Three months following a vasectomy there will still be sperm swimming around “downstream” beyond the cut area. It is crucial to use another birth control method such as condoms to prevent pregnancy. At 12 weeks after the procedure, a follow-up test for the presence of sperm in semen is necessary — with a negative result confirming that the procedure was successful.

But even with the negative result, there is still a 1-in-2,000 chance that you can later regain your fertility. If a pregnancy does occur, you should assume that the body has healed and you’re again capable of making your mate pregnant.

Vasectomy pain

A significant number of men fear getting a vasectomy because of pain. But how bad is the vasectomy pain? While the procedure is almost painless when properly performed, it’s common to feel some soreness afterward. Studies show that somewhere between 1-50 percent of men have chronic testicular soreness, including epididymitis (blue balls) for up to a year after the procedure. And as many as 15 percent of men may experience a seriously aggravating pain after the procedure. The pain, however, is managed with painkillers and would rarely hamper your ability to engage in routine tasks.

Sexual intercourse should be postponed for at least a week after a vasectomy. Some men who have tried sex a day or two after the procedure have reported terrible pain and swelling of the scrotum. Again, it’s important to remember that the surgeon’s experience and technique will determine how much pain you experience after a vasectomy.

What of the link between prostate cancer and a vasectomy?

A few studies were published in early to middle 1990s that reported that prostate cancer is linked to a vasectomy. However, a more conclusive survey conducted in New Zealand disproved such a link. Another study by researchers from the University of Toronto and Mayo Clinic in Rochester examined results of 40 different studies with over 12 million participants and concluded that a vasectomy does not enhance the risk of a man developing prostate cancer. So as we now know it, there is no link between prostate cancer and a vasectomy.

Vasectomy and dementia

A 2006 study by researchers from Northwestern University appeared to relate vasectomy with dementia, causing some concern by highlighting a plausible, even if unlikely, mechanism through which vasectomy can result in brain damage. Triggered by a patient at an Alzheimer’s clinic complaining that his aphasia (speech problems) started soon after a vasectomy, the researchers surveyed 47 clinic patients with early-stage aphasia and found that 19 of them had undergone a vasectomy.

According to the study, sperm can leak into the body’s normal tissue after the vas deferens is cut resulting in the development of antibodies to sperm in the blood. This was observed in about two-thirds of vasectomized men (sperm doesn’t normally get into the bloodstream). From the observation, the Northwestern study theorized that if antibodies to sperm — which contain some proteins also found in brain cells — appear in blood, they may lead to an autoimmune attack of the brain cells resulting in dementia. Nevertheless, being a small study that hasn’t been replicated, it’s still quite early to draw much from it. And for now, dementia still remains only hypothetically linked to a vasectomy — though the association requires further research.

Effectiveness of vasectomy reversals

Vasectomies are reversible. That’s true. But when making the decision to undergo the procedure, it’s important to approach it as a permanent method of sterilization and not by expecting it to be undone. In fact, when done well, it can only be reversed successfully about 50 percent of the time and with no guarantees that you’ll have children. Only go for a vasectomy if you are sure you have had enough children or don’t want any children. Also make sure to ask all the questions and go for the procedure only when you are truly ready for it.

At St Pete Urology, we offer both vasectomy and vasectomy reversals using procedures that ensure maximum comfort and the least pain for our patients. We have assembled a team of skilled, knowledgeable and experienced urologists who perform hundreds of vasectomies every year. So you can be sure that your procedure will follow the right technique and have the highest chance of success. For more information on vasectomy and vasectomy reversals and their risks and benefits, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

Vasectomy Reversal – Does it REALLY work?

A vasectomy reversal is the procedure to reconnect the tubes (vas deferens) that are cut and sealed off during a vasectomy. Though still considered a permanent method of birth control, advances in microsurgery have ensured that it can be reversed even after 15 years or more. Men can choose to undergo a vasectomy reversal after a remarriage, a change of heart, loss of a child, or to treat testicular pain associated with a vasectomy. The reversal is typically an outpatient procedure performed under general or local anesthesia, taking around 3 hours and followed by a short recovery period. Nevertheless, only about 6 percent of men who undergo a vasectomy choose to have it reversed later.

Success rate of vasectomy reversal

The success rate of reconnecting the tubes severed during vasectomy is quite high, about 90 percent. After a successful reconnection of each tube, sperm is again able to pass from the testicles through the tubes and reach semen, and a man may again be able to get his partner pregnant. But the success of a vasectomy depends on a number of factors, such as the state of the tubes during the reversal and how many years have elapsed since the vasectomy was done.

If you undergo a vasectomy reversal within seven years of the vasectomy, the reversal is a simple procedure of putting the vas deferens back together. But if the tubes are too short to reconnect, if there is scarring or it’s been more than seven years since you had the vasectomy, the reversal process may be more complex. However, even with the more complex procedure, the success rate is still around 50-60 percent with no much difference in pregnancy rates — the average being 50-60 percent likelihood of pregnancy, which drops to 44 percent if time since a vasectomy is greater than 15 years.

If the time since vasectomy is less than 15 years, the reversal provides a pregnancy rate that’s higher than in vitro fertilization (IVF) and sperm aspiration with intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). And even after intervals greater than 15 years since a vasectomy, the reversal still gives outcomes equal or greater than IVF with ICSI.

Vasectomy reversal techniques

Vasectomy reversal is usually performed in two ways. The first technique is vasovasostomy (VV), which is basically the piecing back together of the two sides of the tubes (vas deferens) — that is vas deferens to vas deferens. The other technique is vasoepididymostomy (VE), which involves reconnecting the vas deferens to epididymis, the duct that transports sperm to the vas deferens. Generally vasovasostomy (VV) is done if sperm is present in the vas fluid. If sperm isn’t present in the fluid, vasoepididymostomy (VE) is the go-to procedure. In some cases, a combination of both techniques may be necessary, with a vasoepididymostomy done on one side and a vasovasostomy on the other.

A vasoepididymostomy is slightly more complicated and therefore chosen only when a vasovasostomy is impossible or can’t work. You won’t know the technique that the surgeon will use until the operation begins and that usually depends on whether sperm is present in the fluid found in the vas deferens at the time of surgery. Both are outpatient procedures that take less than 3 hours. A man has a successful vasectomy reversal if sperm evaluations performed several months later indicate he has the normal sperm count necessary for conception.

How should you prepare for a vasectomy reversal?

A vasectomy reversal is a complex and expensive procedure that’s often not covered by insurance. So you should find out what you’ll need and all the costs well ahead of time. The procedure is generally more successful when performed by surgeons who are trained and experienced in microsurgical techniques and who have done the procedure several times. So when choosing a doctor for the procedure, find out how many reversals the surgeon has performed, the techniques used, how often pregnancy has occurred after surgery, and the risks and complications involved.

Similarly, you’ll need to buy tight-fitting undergarments (like an athletic supporter) that you will wear after the procedure to hold bandages in place and support your scrotum. You also will need to stop taking medications that increase the risk of bleeding, including pain relievers (like ibuprofen or aspirin) and blood-thinning drugs. You should make arrangements for your travel to and from the hospital and for the length of time you will need to recover after surgery.

What should you know before a vasectomy reversal?

Vasectomy reversal is performed as an outpatient procedure that doesn’t require an overnight stay in a hospital. Before the procedure, the surgeon will take your medical history and conduct a physical examination to make sure you’re not having any health problems that may lead to complications after or during surgery. If your physical exam shows abnormal results or you’ve got sexual function issues, the doctor may consider running some blood tests. Likewise, a review of your surgical history is done to assess whether you had any previous surgeries other than the vasectomy or prior injuries that can hinder the vasectomy reversal. The doctor also will confirm whether you can produce healthy sperm. While evidence of fathering a child before is usually sufficient proof of the health of your sperm, additional testing may be necessary if there is uncertainty.

What happens during a vasectomy reversal?

Once you’re in the operating room, anesthesia is applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure. That may either be general anesthesia to keep you unconscious throughout the procedure or a local, spinal or epidural anesthesia to minimize pain but without putting you to sleep. The surgeon then makes a small incision on the underside of your scrotum to expose the tubes (vas deferens) and free them from surrounding tissues. Cutting open the vas deferens, the surgeon examines the fluid inside the tubes to establish whether sperm is present. If it’s found that sperm is present, the doctor simply reconnects the ends of the tubes to enable sperm passage. If the fluid inside the vas deferens is pasty, thick or contains partial or no sperm, that’s usually an indication that there’s a blockage of sperm flow and that vasovasostomy may not work. In that case, vasoepididymostomy is the more appropriate procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

After the procedure, the doctor applies bandages to cover the incisions. Make sure to ask your doctor when it will be OK to take the bandages off. The stitches applied should dissolve in 7-10 days. You will be required to wear tight-fitting undergarments (like athletic supporter) and apply ice to minimize swelling. The area may feel sore for many days, but the pain shouldn’t be severe and should improve within a few days to one week.

Once back at home, make sure to take it easy and avoid any activities that may move the testicles excessively or pull on the scrotum or testicles, such as heavy lifting, biking, jogging or sporting activities. For the next several weeks, wear an athletic supporter at all times, removing it only when showering. Avoid activities such as swimming and bathing for the first two days following surgery because they can make the surgery site wet. If your job requires much driving, walking or physical exertion, seek your doctor’s advice on when it’s safe to return to work. But for a desk job, you can return to work within a few days after surgery — only making sure that nothing harms the surgery site. Do not ejaculate or engage in sexual intercourse until your doctor gives you a go ahead — that is often 2-3 weeks after surgery.

What results should you expect?

To assess the success of a vasectomy reversal, the doctor will examine your semen 6-8 weeks after surgery. If the procedure is successful, sperm will be present in the semen. The appearance of sperm in semen should happen within a few months, but may take a year or more in some cases. So the doctor may have to conduct periodic semen analysis to evaluate the success of the procedure, unless your partner gets pregnant soon after the reversal. The prospect of achieving pregnancy usually depends on a number of factors, including the age of your female partner and the duration of time that has elapsed since the vasectomy.

Can the reversal fail to work?

If a blockage develops in the tubes after surgery or there is an underlying issue with your testicles that wasn’t recognized during surgery, a vasectomy reversal can fail to work and you may need a second-attempt reversal procedure. Doctors often opt to collect and freeze some sperm during a vasectomy reversal, which can then be used if the procedure doesn’t work. But if sperm isn’t frozen during the procedure or you completely lack sperm in your ejaculate, sperm can still be retrieved directly from your epididymis or testicle to help you have children via assisted reproductive techniques, like in vitro fertilization.

At St Pete Urology, we have a huge pool of urologists trained in andrology and experienced in microsurgical techniques. We conduct the procedure under very high-level magnification using incredibly small sutures. We perform several vasectomy reversals every year and boast significantly high success rates. So if you are looking for specially trained and skilled doctors to reverse a vasectomy in a way that will maximize your chances of having children, come and see one of our urologists. For more information on vasectomy and vasectomy reversal procedures, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

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What It Actually Feels Like To Get A Vasectomy

You are married and got the number of kids you always wanted. You also have decided that your family is now complete, right? So, a vasectomy it is, then. For you know that three months after a vasectomy, you will be almost 100 percent sure of no pregnancy. And that it is reversible, with 40-90 percent success rate. That’s great. Now you can go for it and enjoy wonderful times together thereafter with your spouse — no more kids to worry about.

Ready to go?

Well, yes. But there is a problem. You don’t know what it feels like to have a vasectomy and that worries you. Will it hurt? What if something goes awfully wrong down there? How long will it take to get back to 100 percent? The Internet provides answers, but you can’t tell which answers are correct. You find several men saying the experience was so easy that they were able to run a marathon the day after. But others are complaining that their experience made them feel less of a man.

Learning from others

Both sound too extreme. You want to clear the gray areas; you want true, non-medical real-talk. You want to hear from a man who has had a vasectomy and can understand your concerns. Let’s talk about what you will experience, or rather what I experienced.

What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a method of birth control that prevents pregnancy by stopping the supply of sperm to your semen. The tubes (vas deferens) carrying sperm from the epididymis to your ejaculatory ducts are sealed to prevent sperm from moving and getting into the semen. So you continue to ejaculate semen that doesn’t contain sperm and can’t cause pregnancy.

How is a vasectomy done?

Your doctor cuts open your scrotum to access the testicles (two balls inside your scrotum) and locate the tubes (vas deferens). Starting with one testicle, the urologist removes a tube, cuts a chunk out of it, closes the cut ends, puts the now-two tubes back into the testicle and stitches it shut. After that, the doctor turns to the other testicle and repeats the process. The entire procedure takes 10-30 minutes and you are free to go home. While you remain awake throughout the procedure, a local anesthetic applied to your scrotum makes sure you are numb down there. So you can engage in a chat with your doctor as the procedure goes on.

Does it hurt?

Yes, but not as much as you imagine. Initially, pain occurs when the anesthetic is applied. As the anesthetic is applied, you will feel as if someone is whacking your balls with a rubber band many times, resulting in deep, nauseating discomfort. But after that, everything down there becomes numb, though you may still feel the tugging, pulling and pressure during the procedure.

Can it go wrong down there?

Like any surgical procedure, a vasectomy comes with risks, such as infection and hematoma (bleeding in your balls). But overall, it is a safe and effective procedure. Your doctor will discuss with you all the risks of the procedure before you agree to it. And you will sign a waiver document for risks such as impotence, heart attack, bleed out, stroke and death. If you are worried that a vasectomy will trigger prostate cancer, this is the time to chat about it with your urologist. Of course studies have shown that there is no link between prostate cancer and vasectomy.

What about anxiety?

Anxiety can be a terrible part of a vasectomy. But many urologists prescribe medications to relieve anxiety, commonly a single Xanax prescription. If your doctor gives you this, don’t hesitate to take it. It will help you drift away mentally and relax, ensuring you are free from anxiety during the procedure. My urologist did not give me any such medication and I must confess that anxiety was the worst part of my experience.

What of post-op pain?

For a few days after the procedure, you have a dull, generalized soreness down there, accompanied by some low-grade stomachaches. With prescribed pain medication, you feel okay. I took Tylenol regularly plus rest and a couple of beers and felt fine. But the most serious post-op pain occurs when you catch one of the stitches with your underwear. It really hurts. I fell down like a potato sack, and believe you will too. Make sure you don’t catch one of these stitches.

How long will it take for you to recover 100 percent?

It’s different for each person. The doctor will tell you something like 10-14 days, but it may be longer or shorter for you. You definitely should keep off your feet for the first 24-48 hours and keep yourself on ice. You can start to shower after 48 hours, but that won’t be fun. I was able to walk around with slight problems after a couple of days, and started running again after a week with little soreness. I was able to resume my normal activities by day three, but that was because I felt pain-free and was quite bored after two days. Monitor your body well for pain and other complications before you get back to normal activities.

When can you begin to have sex?

The invasive stitches on your balls will remain tender and physically strange for a couple of days. This will make you quite anxious and less prepared for sex. My doctor said, “Go for sex when you are ready.” For me that was around 10 days after the procedure. Your case could be different. So don’t worry too much about it because you will get back to your old self pretty quickly once you and your spouse begin to ignite the flames of passion in the bedroom.

Where can you undergo the procedure?

Depends on which city you live in. But you should go for a doctor with years of experience performing the procedure. A place offering no-scalpel, open-ended vasectomy is great. Mine was done at St Pete Urology and it was great. The urologist was frank and friendly, and we explored a lot of questions before the procedure. Want more information on safe vasectomy? Visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

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Is It Ok to Work Out After Getting A Vasectomy?

So you are thinking of having a vasectomy? And you fear it could disrupt your imminent project, work plan, business venture or regular workout routine? You really enjoy what you do and you can’t stand several days away from it. Your fears may be justified considering how long it often takes to recover from various medical procedures. But when it comes to a vasectomy, you really don’t need to worry. A vasectomy will keep you out for a far shorter time than you imagine. And in no time you will be back doing what you like.

Scalpel-Free Open Ended Vasectomy

Previously, vasectomy involved an incision in the scrotum using a scalpel, followed by blocking both ends of the tubes (vas deferens) with a clip, suture or diathermy. This closed-ended technique required stitching of the incision, which increased the risk of infection and complications, like congestive epididymitis (tenderness due to pressure build-up). However, things have since changed and the no-scalpel, open-ended procedure is now the norm. This technique only requires a tiny puncture in your skin using special forceps, followed by closing the upper part of your vas with a suture while leaving open the end of the tube connected to the testicle. In only 15-20 minutes, the procedure is done and you are out to begin your recovery.

Less Strenuous Activities

If all goes well, you can be back to your desk job soon after the procedure. But for a fitness routine or a more physically demanding job, you may require a few days off to recover before returning. Typically, the number of days you need depends on the type of activity you intend to undertake. For instance, you should not engage in activities requiring standing and walking all day or carrying loads greater than 10-15 kg until after one week. Likewise, for non-contact sports such as swimming, golf and tennis, you need 2 weeks before you can return. For cycling, you should take 2 weeks off before engaging in stationary cycling, at least 3 weeks before getting back to road cycling, and at least 4 weeks before you can engage in mountain biking.

More Strenuous Activities

Before you can engage in more strenuous activities, you need more time off to recover. For instance, contact sports such as soccer, rugby, martial arts, hockey or powerlifting will require at least a month off. If you fall in the powerlifting category, you may be tempted to use these four weeks off to build your one-rep max, but you must resist such temptations. In fact, you must avoid all sorts of heavy weights that come with low repetition sets, such as squats, leg press and heavy deadlifts. Such exercises can cause a massive build-up of internal pressure, which may lead to internal bleeding at the operation site and potentially result in a scrotal hematoma. A scrotal hematoma is a nasty lump that can be as big as a grapefruit in your scrotum and may take up to 2 months to resolve.

Sexual Intercourse

You can resume normal sexual intercourse one week after a vasectomy. But you should use contraception such as condoms for at least 3 months and until after your semen has been double-checked and found to be completely sperm-free. Ever heard of pregnancies after a vasectomy? Sex within 3 months after a vasectomy may still result in pregnancy because your semen may still contain sperm. So use contraceptives until your doctor confirms that your semen is sperm-free.

Work With Your Urologist

To prevent any problems and reduce the time you need to be off before resuming normal work, follow post-care instructions strictly and pay attention to your doctor’s guidance. By using a cold pack during the first 3-4 days after the procedure and avoiding strenuous activities until your body has healed properly, you will prevent potential complications (such wound reopening, pressure build-up and infection) and speed up your recovery. Fortunately, the most likely issue after a vasectomy is often just a mild ache that goes away in a few days and can be contained with Paracetamol.The other complications, such as hematoma, infection and sperm granuloma (a pea-sized lump on the cut end of your vas deferens) are quite rare.

At St Pete Urology, we offer the painless, no-scalpel open-ended vasectomy procedure. And we guarantee that you recover swiftly and get back to your most cherished activities very quickly. Have questions still? Find out more about safe, painless vasectomy by visiting the “St Pete Urology” site.

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Vasectomy Animation Overview

Sperm production occurs in the male testis (testicle). Each testis contains seminiferous tubules, which are tiny coiled tubes lined with spermatogonia (sperm stem cells) and sertoli cells (sperm nurse cells) for sperm production. Around the tubes are testosterone-producing cells called Leydig cells, which produce hormones that stimulate the nurse cells and regulate sperm production. It takes roughly 70 days for sperm to develop in the testis and be ready for action.

Movement of Sperm

Newly formed sperm cells move into the epididymis (a tightly coiled duct located above the testis), where special proteins are added to the sperm membrane resulting in highly specialized cells capable of swimming, binding and penetrating the ovum (female egg). Since sperm cells only form a small portion of the ejaculated fluid, the cells are typically mixed with fluids from glands such as prostate, seminal vesicles and Cowper’s gland as they are pushed through the ducts. In fact, a big part of the fluid making up semen comes from the prostate gland and the seminal vesicles. From the epididymis, sperm cells move into the vas deferens and then into the urethra.

Sperm after vasectomy

During a vasectomy, the sperm duct (vas deferens) is cut and its ends sealed to prevent passage of sperm into the urethra. So sperm cells are still produced and moved into the epididymis to mature but are not able to pass into the vas deferens because of the blockage at the ends of the vas. After a vasectomy, sperm is still produced but does not get into the ejaculated fluid due to the blockage of the vas deferens. And since the sperm cells cannot move out, they naturally dissolve and are absorbed by the lining (membrane) of the epididymis. Vasectomy does not reduce a man’s ability to have orgasms. In fact, you still have the same mind-blowing experience but without the possibility of a pregnancy.

Does vasectomy have complications?

Vasectomy is one of the most effective and safest methods of birth control. However, like every other surgical procedure, a vasectomy may have complications. Therefore, it is important to discuss this with your doctor before undergoing the procedure.

Whenever complications occur after a vasectomy, they are usually minor and very easy to treat. For instance, after the procedure a man may experience a dull ache or pain due to pressure on the tiny tubes of the epididymis. This pain is treated with medication, though removal of epididymis sometimes may be recommended. Other possible complications are a risk of infection, fluid accumulation, temporary swelling, transient bruising or bleeding. Vasectomy does not increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Looking for a surgical and medical center where you can have the safest vasectomy procedure? At St Pete Urology, you can be sure of getting one of the most skilled and experienced pool of urologists, latest medical and surgical equipment, and patient-friendly, multidisciplinary services that guarantee the best outcomes. For more information, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

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What happens to the sperm when you have a vasectomy?

Vasectomy is an effective way of sterilizing men permanently. The surgical procedure involves partially removing (cutting) or blocking both sides of the vas deferens to stop sperm from getting into the semen. A vasectomy is not intended to stop the production of sperm; it just ensures that the sperm produced in the testes does not reach the ejaculate and no longer reaches the female reproductive tract to trigger pregnancy.

So what is the fate of the sperm that is still produced after a vasectomy?

After a vasectomy, your ejaculations remain much the same as before the procedure. You will still produce as much ejaculatory fluid as before and will experience the same feeling and pleasure as before the operation. The only change is that your semen will no longer have sperm. However, since sperm is just around 2-5 percent of the ejaculate volume, there is no significant difference in ejaculate volume after a vasectomy.

Continued production of sperm

The testicles continue to produce sperm even after a vasectomy. The testicles are made up of small, coiled tubes known as seminiferous tubules, which produce sperm. In the tubules are sperm nurse cells that regulate sperm stem cells. The tubules are also surrounded by testosterone-generating cells, which promote sperm development by stimulating the nurse cells and in turn controlling the sperm stem cells. It takes around 70 days for sperm cells to develop fully and be ready for action. After sperm cells are produced, they move into the duct where some proteins are added to improve sperm performance. The sperm then gets into the vas deferens (tubes) for transportation to the ejaculation point.

Fate of sperm after a vasectomy

For sperm to mature, it is usually stored in a tube called the epididymis. The epididymis is a tightly-coiled tube measuring 15-18 feet long where sperm usually leaves to the vas deferens to take part in fertilizing an ovum (egg). After undergoing a vasectomy, the sperm cannot move out of the epididymis. Therefore, most of the sperm is absorbed by the lining (membrane) of the epididymis and dissolves naturally into the body.

Open-ended vasectomy

At St Pete Urology, we use the open-ended vasectomy procedure as part of our no-scalpel, no-needle technique to improve sperm drainage after vasectomy. We understand that a man’s testicles age and the sperm machinery may be less efficient with time. Therefore, instead of leaving our patients to rely solely on the epididymis for sperm disintegration and absorption, we apply the open-ended technique to ensure the bottom end of the tubes (vas deferens) is left open (uncauterized) while cauterizing the end leading to the penis, providing a reliable way for drainage of sperm after a vasectomy. The open-ended technique ensures that sperm is naturally reabsorbed back into the testes without any pain, discomfort or pressure.

Are you planning to have a vasectomy? At St Pete Urology, we perform the procedure using a simple, safe and effective method. Our no-scalpel, no-needle technique ensures quick recovery and a return to work in as soon as 2 days. Want an appointment with our vasectomy experts? Visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

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Vasectomy vs Tubal Ligation

Are you done having children or just feel sure you never want kids? If so, then you may consider having a permanent birth control (sterilization) procedure. For couples, sterilization can be performed on either a man or woman, with the procedure for men called a vasectomy while for women it is known as tubal ligation (getting your tubes tied). Sterilization is a common method of birth control, with more than 23 percent of all couples in the United States relying on it to stop having children.

What is tubal ligation? What is vasectomy?

Tubal ligation is a sterilization option for women. During the procedure, the fallopian tubes are sealed off or blocked to prevent ova (eggs) moving from the ovary via the fallopian tubes, preventing them from meeting with male sperm. A vasectomy is a sterilization option for men in which a man’s vas deferens tubes are blocked or tied and cauterized to prevent the transportation of sperm during ejaculation. While both vasectomy and tubal ligation are viable options, only one of the two procedures may be necessary when a couple chooses sterilization as a method of birth control. And often, vasectomy is the most preferred method of sterilization for couples because it is simpler, safer, cheaper, more reversible and more effective than tubal ligation.

Safety of vasectomy and tubal ligation

Both tubal ligation and vasectomy are extremely safe. However, tubal ligation involves hospitalization of women as the procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Tubal ligation is a more complex and lengthier procedure. On the other hand, a vasectomy, particularly the no-scalpel procedure, can be performed in as little as 10 minutes with the patient allowed to go home soon after operation. Vasectomy is less invasive and the doctor barely scores the scrotum skin. So when as a couple you are choosing between a vasectomy and tubal ligation, then the safety, convenience, minimal complications and short recovery time should make vasectomy the better option.

Risks of vasectomy and tubal ligation

Tubal ligation is typically a laparoscopic procedure that requires many hours or days of recovery. There also may be serious complications associated with general anesthesia, perforation of intestines or even infection. Tubal ligation also may cause long term side effects such as painful menstrual cycles and pelvic pain, though this occurs rarely. A vasectomy is a simple, minimally invasive outpatient procedure which takes less than one hour. It also does not have scientifically proven long-term risks or complications.

Efficacy of vasectomy and tubal ligation

Both vasectomy and tubal ligation are very effective. Studies examining the failure rates of vasectomy and tubal ligation have rated them among the most effective methods of birth control, with less than 1 in 100 chance of pregnancy after sterilization. However, because tubal ligation is more invasive and women have to stop using all forms of contraception after attaining a certain age, vasectomy is more appropriate.

Cost of vasectomy and tubal ligation

The costs associated with vasectomy and tubal ligation is quite different. A tubal ligation costs four times as much as a vasectomy. The average cost of a tubal ligation procedure is $2,000 or more while the average cost of a vasectomy procedure is $500, though the exact price varies from one surgeon to another. Nevertheless, if you have to pay for sterilization straight from your pocket, then a vasectomy may be more preferable as it is less expensive.

Reversibility of vasectomy and tubal ligation

Vasectomy and tubal ligation are considered permanent procedures. While a reversal of either is possible, the reversal procedures are quite expensive and without guarantee of success. While at least half of couples have reported successful pregnancy after a reversal of either type of sterilization, success rates depend on a number of factors, including the age, time since sterilization and type of surgery. So if you are not really sure that you do not want children, you should consider other birth control methods such as the implant (IUD) instead of sterilization.
Birth control is not the sole responsibility of women and their male partners should work with them to choose safer and more effective methods of birth control. A vasectomy has lower risks of complications, lower costs and more convenience than tubal ligation. However, before making a decision, it is important to speak with your doctor to obtain all the crucial information necessary for making an informed decision. At St Pete Urology, we help couples to make the right birth control decisions and to have access to safe and effective procedures. For more information, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

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Can You Get a Vasectomy Undone?

If for some reason, such as a remarriage or loss of a child after a vasectomy, you choose to have children, can you get a vasectomy undone? Certainly yes! In fact, you can have a vasectomy undone even after a period of time as long as 25 years. However, at St Pete Urology, we are aware that some people may misuse this procedure. For this reason, we are committed to open and informative discussions with our patients before they have a vasectomy, ensuring they know that vasectomy is a permanent birth control method which they should undergo only when certain that they no longer want to have children. We also inform them of the option of vasectomy reversal but only as an ideal option when there is a drastic change of circumstances and a pressing need to have children after a vasectomy.

Outpatient procedure

Vasectomy reversal is often done as an outpatient surgery performed under localized, regional or general anesthesia. Executed with the help of an operating microscope and taking 3-4 hours, vasectomy reversal involves reconnecting the two severed ends of the vas deferens to allow sperm to be transported out of the body. Most men are eligible for a vasectomy reversal, but we usually go through the procedure in detail with our patients to ensure it is right for them.

Techniques for reversing a vasectomy

Before embarking on a reverse vasectomy, the urologist checks for sperm within the vas deferens. The presence or absence of sperm determines the type of surgery performed by the doctor. For instance, if sperm is found within the vas, the urologist will simply need to put the two ends of the vas deferens back together in order to restore male fertility. This procedure is called vasovasostomy, a sewing back together of the severed ends of each tube that carries sperm. In other cases, a blockage closer to the testicle may prevent sperm from reaching the vas. This calls for a more complicated surgery called vasoepididymostomy, which bypasses the blockage. Vasoepididymostomy involves connecting the vas deferens directly to the epididymis (a small organ located at the back of every testicle and which holds sperm).

High success rate

A vasectomy reversal is a more complex procedure that requires more expertise and experience than the original vasectomy. Therefore, it is important that you work with a surgeon who performs vasectomy reversals on a regular basis and who has a track record of success with both types of reversals. When properly performed, vasectomy reversal has a high success rate of 80-95 percent. In fact, the return of sperm (potency rate) is as high as 95 percent, while pregnancy rates vary from 50-70 percent. However, the likelihood to achieve pregnancy after a reversal depends on various factors, including experience of the surgeon, length of time since the vasectomy was done, tissue or tube damage that occurred during original vasectomy, and fertility status and age of your female partner.

Recovery after a reversal

After reversal surgery, it takes 5-14 days to recover. Vasectomy reversal is a minimally-invasive procedure that will not have a heavy toll on your body so you may only expect some soreness in the scrotal area, but this can be relieved with pain medication. However, sexual intercourse and heavy lifting should be avoided during the first 4 weeks after surgery. Your doctor will assess the success of reverse vasectomy by examining your semen 6-8 weeks after the operation. Sperm quality will return to normal 3-6 months after reversal surgery.
At St Pete Urology, we have state-of-the-art facilities, experienced urologists and a patient-centered multidisciplinary approach to ensure your vasectomy reversal is an absolute success. For more information, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

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How is a Vasectomy Done?

Vasectomy is one of the most effective and safest methods of birth control. It is also a quick, easy and office-based procedure that patients can walk in and out of without assistance. During a vasectomy, the small tubes in the scrotum called vas deferens are either cut or blocked off to prevent sperm from leaving the body to cause pregnancy. The surgical procedure takes 10-30 minutes and you can return home on the same day.

Specialized attention

At St Pete Urology, we ensure that patients get the best and safest operation possible. Our vasectomy procedures are typically performed in the office of a urologist, a doctor specialized in treating conditions of the urinary tract and reproductive system. Prior to the procedure, the urologist discusses all aspects of vasectomy with the patients and their partners as openly and candidly as possible. This ensures that the procedure is performed only on the right patients. We also give all our patients close and confidential attention and help them through the decision-making process.

Types of vasectomy

There are two types of vasectomies: the conventional (incision) method and the non-scalpel [no-cut) method. With the incision method, the urologist makes 1 or 2 small cuts in the scrotum in order to access the vas deferens. A tiny section of the vas deferens is cut and removed, then the ends are cauterized (sealed with heat) and tied with stitches. The urologist completes the operation by performing the same procedure on the other testicle, either via the same opening or a second scrotal incision. After the vas deferens is tied off, the doctor applies skin “glue” or a few stitches to close the opening(s) in the scrotum.

With the non-scalpel method, the urologist makes a tiny puncture hole on one side of the scrotum. Using the hole, the doctor finds and pulls out the vas deferens from under the skin. After cutting and removing a small section of the vas deferens, the doctor ties off or cauterizes its ends before putting it back in place. The procedure then is repeated on the other testicle. No stitches are necessary because the puncture holes are quite small. Since you will be awake throughout the procedure, the doctor gives you a localized anesthetic to numb the scrotum and minimize pain and discomfort. However, you will still feel some pulling and tugging during the procedure.

Recovery

Whether performed through the incision or the non-scalpel method, vasectomy is typically a minimally invasive procedure that you will recover from quickly. After the procedure, you will experience mild to moderate pain and soreness in the scrotal area, but this can be managed easily with pain medication. It will take you about 5-7 days to return to full activity and 1-2 weeks to resume sexual intercourse. Be sure to contact your doctor as soon as you experience any complications.

Ignore the myths

Vasectomy will not change your sexual desire or performance. It does not affect your levels of testosterone, erections and volume of ejaculate. In fact, based on available clinical data, vasectomy does not have any long-term effects on sex drive in men. On the contrary, many men have reported a remarkable improvement in their sexual vigor and enthusiasm after the procedure because they have been relieved of the fear of unwanted pregnancy. Vasectomy also will not increase your risk of prostate enlargement or prostate cancer. So if you are thinking of having a vasectomy, ignore the myths and speak with your doctor for help.

At St Pete Urology, we have offered non-scalpel vasectomies for many years and incision vasectomies for much longer. We provide comprehensive vasectomy services that include pre-procedure consultations, a safe and effective office-based procedure, and all the requisite follow-up testing. If you are thinking about having a vasectomy, call or visit us for help. For more information, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

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