Our Services / Vasectomy

What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a form of contraception for men. It’s a type of male surgical sterilization. 

During the minimally invasive procedure, your surgeon at Northwest Arkansas Urology Associates cuts and seals the tubes that carry sperm to the urethra for ejaculation. These tubes are known as the vas deferens.

This procedure only stops sperm from reaching your seminal fluid. It doesn’t affect your erections or ejaculations. A vasectomy is one of the most effective forms of contraception. 

What happens during a vasectomy?

Your surgeon at Northwest Arkansas Urology Associates discusses the details of your vasectomy at your initial consultation. They perform the procedure at the office and may use one of two techniques:

Conventional vasectomy

During a conventional vasectomy, your surgeon makes one or two cuts in the skin of your scrotum to gain access to the vas deferens. Your surgeon cuts the tube, ties the ends, and places them back under the skin. Your surgeon then closes the initial incision.

No-scalpel vasectomy

For a no-scalpel vasectomy, your surgeon finds the vas deferens under the skin and holds it in place with a clamp. They make a tiny hole in the scrotal skin and gently remove the vas deferens, cutting and tying off the tube. 

For both techniques, your urologist uses a local anesthetic to numb the area before the surgery. 

How long is recovery following a vasectomy?

Recovery following a vasectomy varies. However, most men fully heal within a week. You may experience pain and swelling during the recovery period. The team recommends ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication to ease discomfort.

You also need to refrain from sexual intercourse for up to a week following a vasectomy. When you resume intercourse, you still need to use other forms of birth control for a while. It takes about 20 ejaculations or three months to get rid of the sperm that was already in your seminal fluid prior to your vasectomy.

What is a vasectomy reversal?

A vasectomy reversal is a surgical procedure that reattaches the vas deferens to restore your fertility. This procedure is more complex than the initial vasectomy, and restoration of your fertility varies and depends on many factors, including how long ago you had your vasectomy.

The team at Northwest Arkansas Urology Associates can talk to you about a vasectomy reversal, including potential results, and make referrals to physicians who perform the procedure.

To learn more about the vasectomy or vasectomy reversal, call Northwest Arkansas Urology Associates, or schedule a consultation online today.