Vasectomy

Vasectomy has gained widespread popularity throughout the world. In Australia about 29,000 men per year have a vasectomy. It is a safe and effective method of birth control.

Performed in our rooms, the procedure does not require hospitalisation and we offer a same day consultation and procedure.

What is a Vasectomy?

The vas deferens are two tubes that carry sperm from the testicle to glands at the base of the bladder called the seminal vesicles and the prostate gland (see diagram). It is here that sperm mixes with seminal fluid (the secretions of these glands) to form the ejaculate.

A vasectomy involves the cutting of the vas deferens in order to prevent sperm from entering the ejaculate. This is best done through small incisions in the front of the scrotum (ball bag).

The production of the male hormone testosterone is not effected by this operation.

What types of Vasectomy techniques are there? No scalpel

1. Routinely, the no scalpel technique involves splitting the skin with forceps to access the vas tubes.
2. The forceps are sharp instruments that do pierce the skin.
3. Both ends of the tubes are then either cut and tied or cauterized to prevent the movement of sperm.
4. Sperm production continues and with the vas sealed, the sperm build up in the tubes and clog the system over a period of time.

Open ended

1. The open-ended technique involves a fine cut made into the area to access the vas tubes.
2. The tubes are cut, but only the testicular end is left opened and unsealed, with both ends of the tubes separated by layers of tissue within the scrotal sac.
3. As a result, the sperm do not build up within the vas, but flow as normal and are usually absorbed by the body.
4. This prevents the build up of sperm and the associated congestion, with a lower incidence of postoperative pain and offers a potentially better vasectomy reversal rate.

Which Vasectomy technique is offered at Metrocentre?

The Open Ended Vasectomy is offered at the Metrocentre and is used because it can:

1. Help reduce possible complications
2. Disturb as little as possible the normal function of the male reproductive organs
3. Maximize the likelihood of a successful reversal
4. Not interrupt the lymphatics, nerves, veins and muscles surrounding the vas as the vas is the only structure that is cut.

Can I have the Consultation and the procedure on the same day?

1. Yes you can or you can opt to have them on separate days.
2. Most men prefer to have both the consultation and the procedure on the same day and be able to drive home.
3. The consultation takes around 35 – 40 minutes and partners are most welcome to attend.
4. The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes with a short stay in the recovery room afterwards. Usually, the entire visit is around 1½ hours.

What Analgesia is used in the Vasectomy procedure?

Generally, just a local anaesthetic is used during the procedure. This means that only the area is numb and that you are fully awake. Most men describe the Metrocentre vasectomy experience as involving “minimal discomfort” with a rating of a 0 to 2 out of 10 (10 being the worst pain ever experienced). After a local anaesthetic, men can drive home.

If I am really nervous, can I have more Analgesia?

1. Metrocentre also offers inhalation relaxing medication for men who are nervous or sensitive to pain in addition to the local anaesthetic.
2. This can help you relax and assists to make you feel comfortable and even sleepy during the procedure.
3. The recovery time after inhalation medication is a little longer.
4. You cannot drive for up to 12 hours after inhalation relaxing medication.

What will I feel like after the Procedure?

The local anaesthetic will wear off after about 6 to 8 hours.

After this, most men report having either no pain or some mild discomfort.

1. The best way to reduce postoperative pain and swelling is to apply cold packs to the area for the first 24 hrs.
2. A 500g packet of frozen peas proves to be a great cold pack as it fits the area well (those frozen pea jokes are based on truth!).
3. Keep a few bags in the freezer and swap them as they thaw out.
4. Some of the men who have had the procedure return to work the next day (particularly if they have an office occupation) and swap the cold packs throughout the day!
5. Paracetamol (Panadol) can be used if needed, but most discomfort settles within a few days.

Will I need to take time off work?

For those men who do physical work, for example heavy lifting, it is recommended that they take at least a week off from these duties or modify their work routine. The average man in a low activity /office type occupation can go back to work the next day. If you have had inhalation medications you will require at least 12 hours off. Generally, most men prefer to have the procedure before days off or before the weekend and then return to work as usual.

How long does it take after the Vasectomy for me to become sperm free?

1. It takes about 2 months for the sperm to be cleared from the tubes.
2. During the procedure, some of the sperm will be flushed out, although you must continue to use contraception until the 2-month mark, as not all sperm can be removed.
3. It is useful to enjoy more protected sex than usual at this time as it assists in the removal of any sperm from the system.
4. An approximate date for your 2-month sperm test will be given to you at the post op visit.
5. The results of this test will determine the success of the vasectomy.
6. Once you are notified of successful results, partners can cease taking the pill as a form of contraception.

Will sex be the same?

More often the sex is better. Since the fear of accidental pregnancy is removed, many couples find that vasectomy actually adds to their sexual pleasure. The sensations of sex and the volume of ejaculate will remain unchanged. The surgery does not affect your sexual ability. Sex should be avoided for the first 3-5 days and then it is recommended that you have as much protected sex as possible. This enables faster clearance of the remaining sperm from the vas above the vasectomy site.

Who can have a Vasectomy?

1. Any man whether single or married, with or without children may consider having a vasectomy.
2. At Metrocentre, although vasectomies can be reversed in many cases, we view it as a permanent procedure.
3. During the consultation, all aspects of the procedure will be discussed to ensure that you are an appropriate candidate.

How much does a Vasectomy cost?

A vasectomy is partly covered by Medicare. As we have a dedicated theatre in the clinic where we perform the procedure there are no additional inpatient or excess fees. The procedure is not covered under private health insurance.

Can I store sperm?

If you are interested in storing sperm for the future before having a vasectomy, we are happy to discuss this with you and can arrange for storage.

How do I make an appointment?

We are happy to make appointments via email or by phone. If you would like to know more about vasectomies or any of the other services we provide please call us on:

Ph: 1800 FOR MEN - 1800 367 636

About the Doctor

1. Dr. Lekich was inspired by another Microsurgeon, Professor Earl Owen who is better known as the father of microsurgery in Australia.
2. Professor Owen is now his mentor. In particular was his interest in the “Open Ended Vasectomy” technique promoted by Professor Owen that increased the chances of vasectomy reversal to 84%.
3. Dr. Chris has trained with vasectomists in Australia and overseas and has adopted the open ended technique for vasectomy after training with Professor Owen and other like minded surgeons.