Vasectomy Surgery: Are You Ready to Get Snipped?

A vasectomy, also referred to as male sterilization, is a surgery for men that do not want to have any more children in the future. The decision to have a vasectomy takes careful consideration because it is considered a permanent procedure. That's not to say it's impossible to reverse - in fact Dr. Bastuba is nationally renowned for his success in reversing complex vasectomy reversal surgeries. But, the thought of having surgery "down there" can be so cringe-inducing for most men that they put careful consideration into their decision about the procedure and more importantly, their future lifestyle. How much do you know about getting a vasectomy?

5 Vasectomy Facts You Need to Know

1. A vasectomy is the most reliable male birth control method, being nearly 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancies.
   During a vasectomy, your doctor will close the tube called the vas deferens that carries sperm from the testicle into the seminal fluid and the ejaculate. Once these tubes are closed, you will be completely sterile.

2. The procedure only takes 10 minutes and is relatively pain-free!
   The no-scalpel vasectomy technique has simplified the procedure so that it is much less invasive than a traditional vasectomy, and only takes about 10 minutes. Most of our patients say that the procedure is less painful than they had imagined with only minimal pain and discomfort.

3. You can resume sexual activity about a week after the vasectomy.
   A vasectomy is an outpatient procedure, meaning you get to return home that same day. Recovery is typically quick with most men returning to work soon after and resuming normal sexual activity within a week.

4. Your sperm doesn't disappear immediately after the vasectomy - it takes a few weeks.
   The use of birth control is essential until tests confirm you are sterile. A simple semen analysis test is performed after two to three months to ensure your ejaculate is free of sperm.

5. Most vasectomy procedures are covered by health insurance.

6. There may be a small co-pay, but the majority of patients receive full coverage for the procedure through their health insurance. We encourage everyone to speak with their provider first, to ensure coverage.

Many men are opting for a non-surgical vasectomy. If you are looking to get a vasectomy in the San Diego area, contact Dr. Bastuba for more information.