Vasectomy

What is this procedure?

A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure for permanent male contraception. The vas deferens — the tube that carries sperm from each testicle — is cut, sealed, or blocked on both sides, preventing sperm from being released during ejaculation. Vasectomy does not affect sexual drive, erections, orgasm, or the volume of ejaculate (since sperm makes up only a small fraction of semen). It should be considered a permanent procedure; while reversal is sometimes possible, success is not guaranteed and vasectomy reversal is not available on most insurance policies.

Before your procedure

• This is a permanent decision: Please be certain you do not wish to father children in the future. No-one should feel pressured; take as much time as you need.
• Fasting: Usually not required as local anaesthesia is used. Follow any specific instructions given.
• Medications: Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs should be stopped five days before; warfarin and other blood thinners require specific guidance.
• Preparation: Shower and wash the scrotal area thoroughly on the morning of the procedure. Wear or bring close-fitting supportive underwear (briefs).
• Arrange a lift: You must not drive home after the procedure.

What happens during the procedure

Vasectomy is performed under local anaesthesia in the clinic or procedure room. In the no-scalpel technique (the preferred method), a small puncture is made in the scrotal skin rather than a cut. Each vas deferens is identified, a small segment removed, and the ends are sealed by heat (diathermy), tied, or clipped. The skin puncture closes on its own without stitches. The procedure takes approximately 15–20 minutes. You will be awake throughout; the injection of local anaesthetic is the most uncomfortable part.

After the procedure and recovery

• Scrotal support: Wear supportive underwear day and night for at least one week.
• Swelling and discomfort: Mild bruising and aching for 2–5 days is normal. Simple analgesia (paracetamol, ibuprofen) is usually sufficient; ice packs can also help.
• Rest: Rest on the day of the procedure. Light activities can resume after 24–48 hours; avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for one week.
• Sexual activity: Wait 5–7 days before resuming sexual activity.
• Contraception — critically important: Vasectomy is NOT immediately effective. Sperm remain in the reproductive tract for several weeks. You must continue to use contraception until a semen analysis at 12 weeks confirms the complete absence of sperm (azoospermia). Dr Hadjipavlou’s team will arrange this test and contact you with the result.
• Driving: Avoid driving on the day. You may drive the following day if comfortable.

When to seek medical help

Contact the secretary on 22 444 444 or El Greco Medical Centre +357 22 782 000 out of hours if you experience:

• Fever above 38 °C
• Rapidly increasing scrotal swelling (possible haematoma)
• Severe pain not controlled by simple analgesia
• Signs of infection: redness, warmth, discharge from the wound

Attend the nearest Accident & Emergency department if you feel acutely unwell or cannot reach us.