No-scalpel Vasectomy
No-scalpel Vasectomy is a procedure that permanently blocks the flow of sperm, providing a reliable and effective form of contraception. In this procedure, the doctor cuts or seals the vas deferens, the duct that carries sperm from the testicles to the urethra, preventing sperm from entering the semen.
Vasectomy is considered a highly effective contraceptive method, with a success rate of over 99%. It provides long-term contraceptive effectiveness, as once the vas deferens is cut or sealed, sperm can no longer enter the urethra and fertilize an egg. After a vasectomy, men no longer need to use other contraceptive methods like condoms or birth control pills.
However, it's important to note that a vasectomy does not take effect immediately. Sperm may still be present in the vas deferens for several months after the surgery, so patients need to use alternative contraception during this period. Additionally, while vasectomy is generally considered a permanent procedure, it can sometimes be reversed through a vasectomy reversal surgery, although the success rate of this procedure is not 100%.
This procedure is usually performed under anesthesia, and can be done in an outpatient or day surgery centre. The surgery is typically short, and the recovery period is relatively fast, but patients may take some time to fully recover the quantity and vitality of sperm.
Vasectomy is often chosen by men who have completed their family planning or wish to avoid the contraceptive burden on their partner. It requires a joint decision between the couple, as it permanently ends their fertility. Patients should carefully consider their long-term contraceptive needs and potential consequences before undergoing the surgery, and discuss any concerns about reversibility with their doctor.
Before the procedure
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Fasting according to instructions. No eating prior to 6 hours before operation. Only few sips of water are allowed until 2 hours before the operation. No oral intake (food or drink) prior to 2 hours before examination.
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Take medication according to instructions.
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Inform doctor early if you are on medication that used to ‘thin’ your blood to prevent clotting, for example, aspirin, clopidogrel or chinese medicine.
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The procedure and possible complications will be explained by the attending physicians before a consent form to be signed prior to the anaesthesia.
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Take shower or clean pubic area before surgery.
After the Procedure
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You may take a shower after surgery.
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Keep the wound clean and dry. Rinse the wound with clean water after urination and mop dry.
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Lifting heavy weight and strenuous exercise should be avoided for six weeks after operation.
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Sexual intercourse must be avoided until wound pain subsided.
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Follow the instruction for wound care.
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After receiving anaesthesia, patients may feel tired, sleepy or dizzy, please take more rest.
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The patient should resume diet only after the effects of any anaesthetic or sedative have worn off.
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If the patient has received intravenous sedation, the consciousness and thinking ability would be impaired. Therefore, the patient should avoid drink alcohol, operating heavy machinery or driving for the rest of the day to prevent an accident. Also he/she should avoid signing any legal document.
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You may be discharged home directly after recovery from sedation. You should have a responsible adult to escort you home.
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If there are serious events develop, such as passage of large amount of blood, severe abdominal pain, etc. patients should consult their doctors.
Reference
World Health Organization. Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization; 2018.