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Vasectomy

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Overview

A vasectomy is a form of permanent birth control. The procedure blocks sperm from entering semen. After a successful vasectomy, there is no sperm in the ejaculate, resulting in permanent infertility.

Hormones are not affected, and sexual performance will not be altered. Sperm contributes very little to the total volume of semen, so there is no noticeable change in the ejaculate after the procedure.

A vasectomy has a failure rate of only a fraction of one percent, which is much lower than other forms of birth control.

Reversal of a vasectomy can sometimes be done with microsurgery, but this surgery is not always successful and is quite expensive. A vasectomy should not be considered if only temporary contraception is desired.

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UR Medicine's Approach

Most procedures last 20 to 30 minutes, and you can go home the same day. During a vasectomy, you will receive local anesthesia to block pain. The procedure will block off the sperm duct (vas deferens) from each testicle to prevent delivery of sperm in the ejaculate. This requires one or two small surgical cuts.

Pain from the operation is usually not severe. Getting back to work depends on your level of pain and the type of job you have. Work can usually be resumed in two to three days, while seven to 10 days is suggested before resuming sex to avoid pain or discomfort.

Due to the very limited surgical cuts, bleeding and infection are rare. But swelling can occur, possibly delaying return to work or other activities.

The procedure is considered successful after you have submitted two semen specimens and both are found to contain no sperm. This may take up to 30 ejaculations to achieve.

What Sets Us Apart?

UR Medicine Urology provides the Rochester area's most advanced and complete urologic care. We have the most highly trained specialists. Many of our doctors are fellowship trained, the highest level of education available.

We use the most advanced technology to perform procedures such as minimally invasive robotic surgery. We use the latest da Vinci Surgical System, with high-definition 3D imaging to enhance the surgeon's vision during certain procedures.

UR Medicine is a national pioneer in minimally invasive surgery, which speeds recovery, reduces post-surgery pain, and decreases the risks of complications. As part of an academic medical center, we’re involved in the very latest research to develop more effective treatments.