Vasectomy FAQs

The procedure itself is relatively pain-free. The surgery is typically performed using local anesthesia and an anti-anxiety medication. Following the procedure, you might experience discomfort for two to five days and swelling that lasts up to a couple of weeks. If you experience pain that isn’t controlled with pain medication, reach out to your doctor to follow up.

Vasectomies are one of the most effective forms of birth control. This form of male birth control can prevent nearly 100 percent of pregnancies. While no method of birth control is foolproof, vasectomies are far more effective than many popular female birth control methods.

As with any surgical procedure, a vasectomy does involve some risk. Some experience discomfort or hematoma (a collection of blood in the scrotum), but these side effects are not dangerous. There is also a very small chance of developing chronic pain, an extremely rare response. Contrary to popular speculation, a vasectomy procedure will not increase your risk of impotence or prostate cancer.

You will experience discomfort for 2-5 days and swelling that could last up to two weeks. We recommend patients do not engage in any strenuous activity for at least 48 hours following their procedure. Strenuous activities can include mowing the lawn, lifting heavy objects or children and exercise. Any high-intensity activity could cause additional swelling and lengthen your recovery period.

Pay close attention to the guidance provided by your physician and refrain from consulting other sources, like friends or the internet. It’s a good idea to have a conversation with your partner before agreeing to the procedure, to ensure you are both in agreement. Make sure you have a ride to and from the procedure. The pain and anxiety medication will inhibit your ability to drive yourself home. We ask patients to shave the scrotum before the procedure and wear compression-type boxer briefs.

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A vasectomy will have no impact on a male’s sexual performance or testosterone levels. You will still have erections and produce the same amount of semen as before; it just won’t contain any sperm that could lead to pregnancy.

ALL insurance plans cover a vasectomy. TPMG Williamsburg Urology accepts most insurances and performs a thorough benefits investigation with your insurance company. The office will contact patients prior to their scheduled vasectomy procedure to review benefits and estimated out-of-pocket cost. To learn more about our accepted insurances and co-payments, please contact our office to determine if your insurance is accepted.

Technically, a vasectomy can be reversed, however, the success rate for reversals range from 30 percent to 90 percent, depending on the type of procedure. We consider a vasectomy procedure a permanent option for those ready to stop having children.

Are you ready to stop having children? If so, you might be a prime candidate. Some other common criteria that could make you a good candidate for vasectomy include:

• Pregnancy is a medical risk to your partner.
• You have concerns about passing on genetic disorders.

If you have questions about whether you might be a good candidate for a vasectomy, call our office to make an appointment to discuss your options with one our doctors at (757) 345-6223.

For those interested in TPMG Williamsburg Urology’s vasectomy services, please contact our office to schedule an appointment: (757) 345-6223