Highly Effective Birth Control for Men
What’s A Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a minor, in-office procedure for men who don’t want to risk future pregnancies. They’re a near-permanent form of birth control that block sperm from entering semen, which prevents pregnancy.
Access Health Center is a trusted vasectomy clinic that completes vasectomies in our Downers Grove, IL office in 30 minutes or less. Our experienced medical providers use the no-scalpel method, which:
- Involves one tiny opening in the scrotal skin in your midline.
- Allows us to complete the procedure through this tiny opening.
- Typically involves zero stitches; your skin heals on its own within a day or two.
Curious about the size of the opening your provider will make?
What Does a Vasectomy Do?
Vasectomies block the tubes that allow sperm to enter your semen, which prevents pregnancy.
What Does a Vasectomy Not Do?
Vasectomies do not affect your testicles, testosterone levels, or sexual performance.
Who Should Get A Vasectomy?
Vasectomy is an excellent option for couples who don’t want to have children. They’re also a great idea for those whose families are complete.
Should Anyone Not Get A Vasectomy?
The decision to get a vasectomy is yours. That said, it’s typically best to hold off on getting a vasectomy if:
- You haven’t decided whether or not you want children.
- You aren’t sure if your family is complete.
- You’re still young and don’t have any children.
- You have certain medical conditions that could complicate the procedure.
- You have scrotal or testicular pain. Vasectomy may worsen the underlying issue in need of treatment.
- You’re seeking protection from STIs. Vasectomies do not protect against giving or receiving STIs.
- You want to cure sexual dysfunction. Vasectomies do not impact your sex drive, performance, testosterone levels, erections, or orgasms.
To help you decide whether you’re a good candidate for a vasectomy or if you’re truly ready for the procedure, it’s best to consult with a provider. Feel free to schedule an appointment when you’re ready.
Why Should You Get A Vasectomy?
We think vasectomies are perfect for those who don’t want to have children, don’t want to have any more children, and don’t want to deal with the stress of potential future pregnancies. The process is fast and straightforward: it’s usually done in 30 minutes or less. Most report it to be painless. And vasectomy is known to be a safe, one-time procedure.
Benefits of Vasectomies
You Enjoy:
No more pregnancy scares.
No more worries about future pregnancies.
More enjoyable sex.
More intimacy.
Your Partner Enjoys:
All of the above PLUS…
No more worries about risks to her own health or making painful decisions should an unplanned pregnancy occur.
Freedom from having to remember or schedule appointments for hormonal birth control.
Saving a substantial amount of money (when compared to a vasectomy) on less-effective contraception.
Improved energy, increased capacity, and better overall health with fewer children to carry, birth, nurture, and look after.
Your Children Enjoy:
More attention and affection, boosting their mental and emotional development.
Healthier food, boosting their physical development.
Nicer clothes and shoes, boosting social development and increasing comfort, confidence, and internal wellbeing.
What Happens Before A Vasectomy?
Here’s what you can typically expect during your in-office vasectomy procedure at Access Health Center.
Before Your Appointment
Before you show up for your vasectomy appointment, we ask that you:
- Shower and cleanse the groin and genital area thoroughly. Use over-the-counter antimicrobial body wash such as Hibiclens Antimicrobial and Antiseptic Soap.
- Prep the area by shaving the underside of your penis and front of your scrotum.
- Avoid aspirin for 5 days before your vasectomy.
- Wear a jockstrap or tight-fitting underwear to your appointment for scrotal support.
- Eat a normal breakfast and/or lunch before you come in.
When you arrive at our office, you’ll be shown to a private room. Your provider will talk with you about the procedure and answer any questions you may have. Our goal is to ensure that you’re as comfortable as possible before, during, and after your vasectomy.
What Happens During a No-Scalpel Vasectomy?
Step 1: Prep
Step 2: Access
Step 3: Block
Step 4: Post-Op
What Happens After?
After your vasectomy, you’ll likely be surprised at how quick and easy the procedure was. Fortunately, the recovery process is nearly just as straightforward. Here’s a timeline of what you can expect after the procedure:
Days 1-3
- Go home and take it easy for the rest of the day.
- Know that you may experience mild groin or pelvic discomfort. This is common for 2-3 days after your vasectomy.
- Take Ibuprofen (Advil) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed for your discomfort. Don’t take aspirin for at least 2 days.
- Avoid any heavy lifting, exercising, and/or performing any strenuous work for at least 2 days after the procedure and/or if you’re still experiencing any discomfort.
Days 4-7
- Slowly resume working out, lifting heavier objects, and/or performing strenuous work when there’s no more discomfort.
- Use backup contraception (vasectomies don’t work immediately) until you’re cleared by a semen analysis.
Week 2 to Week 12
- Slowly resume your daily routine.
- Plan for at least 12 weeks and 20 ejaculations after your vasectomy to clear any existing sperm from your semen. We recommend a semen analysis to check for sperm after this period.
Week 12 Onward
- After 12 weeks, call our office at (630) 964-0000 for follow-up semen testing. We’ll give you a list of local andrology labs where this can be done, or you may use an at-home sperm check test. These tests are available at many local and online retailers.
- Once your follow-up semen testing is complete, no sperm are found in your ejaculate, and the success of your vasectomy is confirmed, you may stop using contraception.
Knowledge Is Power
Now that you know what a vasectomy is, what it’s like to get one, and what it’s like to recover, we hope you feel more confident in your decision-making journey.
You may also schedule an appointment to:
- Talk with a provider about vasectomies in more detail
- Determine whether you’re a good candidate for a vasectomy
- Get your vasectomy done in 30 minutes or less
