06 Sep Male Birth Control: What’s Vasectomy?
Male sterilization or vasectomy is a form of birth control. It is one of the most effective ways to prevent pregnancy, with a more than 99% success rate.
The goal of the procedure is to decrease sperm in the semen, so it will not cause pregnancy. There are two types of vasectomy, which are conventional vasectomy and no-scalpel vasectomy.
In a conventional vasectomy, doctors remove a small tube by cutting it or tying its ends to each other. A small cut is done in the scrotum to reach the vas deferens tube. On the other hand, the no-scalpel vasectomy has no cuts in the process. Only a tiny hole is made so the tube can be tied or cut.
Is Vasectomy The Right Method For You?
Like any surgical procedure, it comes with a set of risks. Here are some of the risks of vasectomy:
- Chronic pain
- Fluid buildup in the testicle and inflammation or granuloma
- Abnormal cyst
- Chronic pain after the procedure or Post vasectomy pain syndrome
- Failure of the procedure
- Regret
What To Expect and How to Prepare?
Preparing for vasectomy includes knowing the benefits and risks of the procedure. In addition, your doctor might advise you to stop anti-inflammatory or blood-thinning medications and aspirin.
You should also bring tight-fitting underwear or an athletic supporter to support the scrotum and minimize the swelling after the procedure.
If you are eyeing to get a vasectomy, you should ask your doctor to discuss the reason behind your decision, whether you have children, and other birth control options available for you.
The procedure usually lasts 10 to 30 minutes. You can expect some swelling after the surgery, including some bruising and pain.
Refrain from any type of activity after the surgery. Your doctor will give you more instructions for your recovery.
SOURCE:
https://www.healthline.com/health/birth-control-vasectomy#recovery