Frequently Asked Questions
WHY CHOOSE VASECTOMY?
Vasectomy provides a permanent and safe means of contraception. It is less expensive, has fewer complications, and is much less invasive than female sterilisation (tubal ligation).
HOW SOON CAN IT BE DONE?
An initial consultation can usually be arranged within days and the operation performed within a few weeks.
Where circumstances dictate, it is possible to perform the vasectomy on the same day; however, it is advisable to take a little time to consider your decision after the initial consultation.
IS IT IMMEDIATELY EFFECTIVE?
It usually takes men about 20 ejaculations for sperm to be cleared from the tubes beyond the vasectomy site. Hence, you will not be sterile immediately after treatment. An alternative form of contraception should be used until your surgeon tells you that a semen sample assessed by a pathologist is clear of sperm.
CAN IT FAIL?
NSV has a very low failure rate when compared to traditional vasectomy. Once a post-vasectomy patient completes his semen analysis and confirms he is all clear, vasectomy becomes statistically the most reliable form of contraception available.
IS IT PAINFUL?
Most men expect to suffer significant pain during and after the procedure. They are surprised (and relieved) to find that there is only some mild discomfort for a few seconds as the local anaesthetic is applied, and then the procedure is relatively pain-free. Discomfort in the recovery period is also now much improved with the NSV method if men adhere to the post-op instructions.
ARE THERE LONG TERM HEALTH EFFECTS?
Some men are concerned (or have heard) that vasectomy can lead to an increased risk of prostate cancer, coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, dementia or testicular cancer. According to the American Urological Association Guidelines published in 2015, decades of research and studies have repeatedly proven that there is no association between vasectomy and any of these conditions.
WILL IT EFFECT MY SEXUAL FUNCTION?
Some men believe that following vasectomy there is no ejaculate after climax. This is not true, as over 95% of ejaculate is made up of fluid from a small gland called the seminal vesicle. Sperm itself makes up only 3-5% of the volume of ejaculate, so most men do not notice any difference in ejaculate following vasectomy.
Many men ask about the effect of vasectomy on testosterone levels, libido, erectile function, and general sexual performance. The answer, after multitudes of studies, is that vasectomy has no effect on any of these. Some studies have suggested that there may actually be an improvement in sexual function for men after vasectomy, as they can relax and no longer worry about contraception or fathering any more children!
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
A typical vasectomy will take 15-20 minutes once the anaesthetic has taken effect.
WHAT ABOUT ACTIVITIES AFTER VASECTOMY?
Usually men can return to work after 48 hours rest. If your work is very physical you may need to allow up to a week off work.
Sports may need to be avoided for 7 to 10 days.
Best advice is to resume sexual activity after about 7 days (but continue to take precautions).
IS VASECTOMY COVERED BY MEDICAL INSURANCE?
We welcome full discussion of fees prior to treatment. Medicare pays a rebate for the consultation and operation fees charged by the doctor. In addition, private health insurers normally a pay a small rebate towards the surgery.
Private health insurance covers the Day Surgery Centre cost (except for any excess you may have on your policy). Please check with you health fund for any individual specifications on your policy.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR VASECTOMY?
It is important to tell the doctor your medical history as this can influence how the treatment is approached. Make sure to disclose:-
- any allergies
- any history of prolonged bleeding or excessive bruising
- all medications whether prescribed or purchased over the counter
If you take ASPIRIN or ANTICOAGULANT drugs, these will need to be stopped for the surgery and this matter can be discussed at your initial consultation.
Do not take medicines containing aspirin, fish oil or any anticoagulants for 7 days prior and 7 days after surgery as these can increase the risk of bleeding.
Wear supportive underwear on the day of surgery.
Arrange for someone to drive you home if desired. Otherwise a driver is not essential but a good idea.
CAN I DRIVE HOME FROM MY VASECTOMY?
Yes, you can drive yourself home if this is convenient. However, if you are prone to fainting, then having a lift home from a support person is recommended.