When it comes to selecting an appropriate form of contraception, many men find a vasectomy procedure worth considering.
The selection of reliable contraception is a highly important decision for all sexually active males, and at Metrocentre we offer one of the most reliable and permanent forms of contraception: an open ended vasectomy procedure.
This minimally invasive procedure involves interrupting the vas deferens to prevent sperm from entering the ejaculate, effectively preventing potential pregnancies. It is important to note that this form of contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV and gonorrhea, and as such traditional barrier methods may also be recommended such as condoms to reduce the risk of the transmission of these diseases.
Whilst vasectomy procedures have historically been highly effective, as this is a permanent procedure it is important to consider this decision in great detail. The following questions have been designed to help men considering undertaking a vasectomy procedure make an informed and appropriate decision.
1) Am I being pressured by my partner or family members to undertake a vasectomy procedure?
Whilst this type of surgical procedure is minimally invasive, it is important to note that this should be considered a PERMANENT procedure. Due to this factor it is important that you are completely comfortable with this decision and are not doing it simply to please your partner or others in your life.
2) Is there any possibility that I will want to conceive a child later in life?
If you envision children in your future this type of procedure may not be a great choice for you. Regardless of the fact that there are highly successful vasectomy reversal procedures available (such as the Owen 3 Layer Micro-Surgical Vasectomy Reversal) there is still a chance that these measures may be unsuccessful, and as such if you desire children later in life a vasectomy procedure may not be the appropriate choice for you.
3) Why should I consider a vasectomy if my partner is taking the contraceptive pill?
There are many reasons why couples may wish to consider switching from the oral contraceptive pill to other methods such as a vasectomy procedure. Pregnancies can occur if the oral contraceptive pill is not taken on a regular basis as prescribed, and this form of contraception has also been linked in recent times to some serious health risks especially with long term use. Whilst more research is being conducted into the link between the oral contraceptive and health risks, at present a link has been found between the pill and serious health risks such as heart disease, venous disorders, and some cancers such as breast and cervical.
4) What are the benefits of a vasectomy procedure when compared to tubal ligation?
Compared to a tubal ligation procedure for female partners, a vasectomy procedure for males is far less invasive and far less expensive. Tubal ligation procedures are invasive and can be painful, with the potential side effects and complications associated with this surgical procedure and involve general anaesthetic.
What are the potential risks/side effects associated with vasectomy procedures?
As with all surgical procedures, there are published potential risks and complications associated with a vasectomy procedure. These can include bleeding, skin irritations, mild pain, post vasectomy chronic congestion pain, nerve related pain, scrotal haemorrhage (the team at Metrocentre find this far too common with patients who seek vasectomy procedures elsewhere), infection, a feeling that there is a slight reduction in the volume, taste or velocity of ejaculate.
It is important to note that these published potential risks and complications rates are overstated and do not feature at Metrocentre. Our procedures take longer to reconstruct rather than cause destruction to achieve sterility with our microsurgical reversal of vasectomies inspiring our vasectomy procedures.
What is the best type of vasectomy procedure for me?
At Metrocentre we recommend our open-ended vasectomy technique. This is associated with a decreased chance of the development of post vasectomy chronic congestion pain, and reduces the chances of scrotal haemorrhage. This minimally invasive procedure has been highly successful and has been shown to promote an increased chance of a successful reversal when compared to some traditional techniques and ‘quick snip’ vasectomies.
What about ‘scalpel free’ and ‘incision free’ vasectomy procedures?
Although the thought of a “scalpel free” procedure sounds inviting, in reality this type of procedure typically involves your doctor using sharp forceps to puncture and tear the scrotum and typically a central incision. At Metrocentre we use two very small (approximately 5mm) precise incisions to perfectly place each vasectomy and allow precise reconstruction to prevent the two ends joining back together.
How much down time will a vasectomy procedure require?
Depending on your occupation, many men find that they are able to return to light duties the day after their procedure. The great thing about the vasectomy procedure offered at Metrocentre is that our doctors have the ability to offer same day consultations and procedures to save our patients valuable time. The team at Metrocentre will provide all the paperwork with instructions and consent forms before your procedure to ensure that you have time to consider if this procedure is appropriate for you.
How long does it take for a vasectomy procedure to work?
For most patients, it typically takes three months for all of the sperm to be cleared from the tubes. Due to this, as soon as you feel ready we encourage you to have as much sex as possible to clear the remaining sperm from your tubes. It is important to note that until you have had a test that has confirmed that your ejaculate is sperm free, traditional methods of contraception will have to be maintained to prevent pregnancy.
Can I store my sperm?
If you are considering storing sperm our friendly team at Metrocentre are more than happy to discuss the various options available with you. This needs to be organised before the day of your procedure.
If you are considering undertaking a vasectomy procedure, our experienced team based in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast are more than happy to share their expertise.
