VASECTOMY

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure for male sterilization which results in permanent contraception and is the most effective form available to men. It is a much simpler and less invasive procedure with a low risk of post-operative complications. During the procedure the male vas deferens are severed and tied or sealed to prevent sperm from entering the seminal fluid (ejaculate) preventing fertilization.

This is a simple procedure and usually takes less than 30 minutes to complete. After a short recovery time and the clinic the patient is sent home to rest. Because the procedure is minimally invasive many vasectomy patients can resume their usual activities, including intercourse, within a week with little or no discomfort. However, another form of birth control will need to be used until at least one and often two post procedural semen specimens verify that the sperm count is zero.

Because the procedure is not easily reversed, men need to consider how the long-term outcome of a vasectomy might affect them and the procedure is not encouraged for young single men as their chances for biological parenthood are more or less permanently reduced to zero by it.

Q:What is a vasectomy?

A: Vasectomy is a safe and effective permanent birth control method for men. It is a simple procedure performed in an outpatient setting. A health care provider numbs the area and makes a small incision to prevent the release of sperm into the seminal fluid. This procedure has been used for many years and has very few side effects.

Q: How effective is a vasectomy?

A: It is extremely effective. Less than 1% of men who have a vasectomy will cause a pregnancy each year. Because some sperm remain beyond the blocked part of the vas deferens, the procedure is not effective right away. You must use another form of birth control (like a condom) until the sperm are gone. This can take up to three months. Your health care provider will check to make sure there are no more sperm during a mandatory follow-up visit.

Q: How does a vasectomy work?

A: The vasectomy procedure is easy and safe. A small incision is made in the scrotum to reach both sperm transport tubes. The vas deferens are then cauterized. The small opening heals quickly. You can begin sexual activity again as soon as you feel comfortable. Remember to use backup birth control until your health care provider confirms there are no sperm in the vas deferens.

Q: What are the benefits of having a vasectomy?

• It is safe, convenient and permanent.
• It a permanent form of birth control.

Q: What are the downsides of having a vasectomy?

• It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• This is a permanent method of birth control. A man should not have a vasectomy if there is even a small chance he may wish to have children in the future.
• Reactions to local anesthesia are possible.
• Some short-term tenderness and bruising may occur. Overall, there is little pain and a low risk of infection with vasectomy.

At Illinois Abortion Clinics, we offer Vasectomy at select locations. You can now request an appointment online at your convenience here.

Our representatives are standing by to answer phone calls 7 days a week, we can help answer any questions you might have, please give us a call at (866) 569-5100.