Vasectomy & vasectomy reversal

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A vasectomy is an outpatient procedure that provides permanent birth control.

Traditional vasectomies use an incision to reach the vas deferens, which requires a scalpel. During the vasectomy procedure, your vasectomy surgeon will cut the vas deferens – the tube that carries sperm from your testes (testicles) to your penis. Then they’ll tie off the cut ends. The procedure needs to be done on both testicles.

Male sterilization surgery won’t affect your ability to have an orgasm, ejaculate or create sperm. It just stops your sperm from mixing with your semen.

No-scalpel vasectomy

Image shows how the vas deferens is cut and tied off during a vasectomy procedure, providing permanent birth control.

Many of our vasectomy surgeons are experts in no-scalpel vasectomy procedures. Instead of making an incision to get to the vas deferens, the surgeon uses a clamp to secure a section of the vas deferens very near the surface of the skin of the scrotum. The surgeon uses a needle to make a very small hole in the skin. The vas deferens is carefully pulled through the hole to be cut and have the ends sealed while outside your body. Then it’s returned to the inside of your body and the hole is sealed.

These minimally invasive male sterilization procedures are equally effective and have fewer risks and complications. They also cause less bleeding and scarring.

It will take some time for your vasectomy procedure to be fully effective. During that time, you should use an additional form of birth control. Success rates for vasectomies are as high as 99% after it’s been determined that you no longer have sperm in your semen.

What is a vasectomy reversal?

As the name suggests, a vasectomy reversal reconnects the vas deferens so your body can release sperm again.

Vasectomy reversal procedures are microsurgeries that allow your testicles to release sperm again. They’re most often performed when someone wants to have children, though some are done to treat testicular pain that develops after a vasectomy.

Vasectomy reversals are more complicated than vasectomies, so it’s important to find a surgeon who has experience with the procedure.

Vasectomy reversal success

Success rates for vasectomy reversal procedures are highest if they’re done fewer than 10 years after the original vasectomy. Your age and your partner’s age are also factors in achieving a pregnancy.

Vasectomy cost vs. benefit

It’s important to carefully weigh vasectomy costs and benefits to be sure it’s the right choice for you. Although vasectomies can sometimes be reversed, there’s no guarantee that such a procedure will restore your fertility. Treat vasectomy as if it’s a final decision.

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