Vasectomy

What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a safe, in-office procedure designed to prevent sperm from entering the semen, serving as a highly successful and effective form of birth control. A small section of the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles, is removed, blocking the passage of sperm from entering the semen and causing pregnancy. During ejaculation after a vasectomy, the semen will not contain sperm.

How is a vasectomy performed?

At Yale New Haven Health, experienced urologists perform vasectomies using two techniques:

• Conventional vasectomy: One or two openings are made into the scrotum’s skin to access the vas deferens, the tube that allows sperm to travel to the semen. A small section of the vas deferens is removed, blocking the passage of the sperm.
• No-scalpel vasectomy: A small puncture is made under the scrotum’s skin and the vas deferens cut, tied or cauterized This procedure is more common than the conventional surgery because this is a less invasive approach and generally has a faster recovery time.

Either procedure typically takes about 15 minutes to perform.

How long does it take to recover from a vasectomy?

Vasectomies have a relatively quick recovery, with most men able to return to light activities and work within 48 hours. For jobs requiring heavy lifting, it is recommended to rest for 3-5 days before returning. Men should avoid having sex for about a week.

What is a vasectomy reversal?

A vasectomy reversal essentially undoes the vasectomy procedure. During this minimally invasive surgery, the urologist makes a small incision in the scrotum to reconnect the vas deferens’ two ends previously cut during the vasectomy. This procedure enables sperm to flow to the urethra.

How is a vasectomy reversal performed?

Before surgery, the urologist collects fluid from the vas deferens to determine which of the following procedures will be performed:

• Vasovasostomy: If sperm is present in the fluid, this minimally invasive surgery is performed reconnecting the two ends of the vas deferens.
• Vasoepididymostomy: If no sperm is detected in the fluid, there may be a blockage present in the vas deferens that is preventing sperm from being transported and this surgery may be required. The end of the vas deferens that is not connected to the epididymis; a coiled tube attached to the testicle that functions to mature, store, and transport sperm, is surgically connected to it.

Both procedures enable sperm to move from the epididymis into and through the vas deferens, making it possible for a male to impregnate a female.

How long does it take to recover from a vasectomy reversal?

Patients may be instructed to ice the scrotum periodically and stay off their feet for two to three days post-surgery. For the first two weeks following surgery, patients should refrain from standing or squatting for extended periods and avoid heavy lifting. Wearing an athletic supporter or bicycle/compression shorts may improve comfort during this time.

Most men can return to work 10 to 14 days after surgery.

Is a vasectomy reversal effective?

Yale New Haven Health’s expert urologists have seen great success rates performing vasectomy reversals. Pregnancy is not guaranteed, but many couples will conceive naturally after the procedure. Couples can begin trying to conceive after the two-week post-surgery recovery period.