Vasectomy Information
What is a vasectomy?
Vasectomy is a safe, effective, permanent method of contraception. The chances of pregnancy after this procedure are usually around 1 in 1,000.
How is it performed?
A vasectomy takes 15-20mins. It is done under light or general anesthetic. The procedure involves two small cuts over the scrotum gaining access to the tubes that carry sperm out of the testicles (vas). The vas is divided, tied and buried in different planes of tissue and a small dissolvable stitch is used on the skin.
What are potential complications from this procedure?
Bleeding
Infection
Chronic Pain
Failure
What is the recovery from the procedure?
Most people experience some swelling and bruising after a vasectomy. It is also normal to experience some pain. It is important to listen to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions;
Rest for a few days
Avoid heavy lifting
Wear supportive underwear
Ensure the wound site is dry and clean
Take painkillers a directed if you are experiencing discomfort
If you experience swelling – ice packs can assist
Post-operative follow-up:
You will be reviewed approx. 3 months after your procedure. You must achieve 20 ejaculations before obtaining a semen test prior to the appointment. If you have not achieved this then please contact the rooms to reschedule the appointment.
Why is this important?
After a vasectomy, live sperm may still be present in a man’s semen for a number of months. Meaning there could still be a chance of a woman becoming pregnant immediately after the vasectomy, even if the procedure was technically successful. This analysis allows us to determine that a man is sterile after his procedure.
Please note: it is strongly recommended that you maintain the use of contraceptives until you have had your post-operative review appointment.
Directions on how to provide a specimen
Collect specimen a minimum of 2 days and a maximum of 7 days after your last ejaculation.
Collect the ENTIRE sample by means of masturbation only.
Collect the specimen in the specially provided container (you can collect these from your nearest pathology collection center). DO NOT expose the container to extremes of temperature. It is best to carry the specimen in your pocket when delivering to the collection center.
Ensure you label the container with your: Surname, Date of Birth, Given Name, Time and Date of Collection.
Deliver with the specimen and pathology request form within 45 minutes of collection.
DO NOT submit specimen samples to Specialised Urology as we cannot conduct the require analysis – this can only be done at your nearest pathology collection center and must be carried out minimum 2 weeks prior to your review appointment.
Locations of Collection Centers
Australian Clinical Labs
St John of God Warrnambool
Botanic Road WARRNAMBOOL VIC
Australian Clinical Labs
156 Percy St, Portland VIC 3305
SA Pathology
Mount Gambier (Hospital)
Wehl Street North, Mount Gambier SA 5290
When can I return to sexual activity?
You can have sex as soon as you feel comfortable, usually within 1 week. Again, it is strongly recommended contraceptive measures are taken during this period before returning for your review appointment.
Can my Vasectomy be reversed?
A vasectomy should be considered an irreversible procedure. However, it is reversible with variable success rates and at great expense. It is important you strongly consider alternate methods if you still feel that you have not completed your family.
How do I book in for the procedure?
Firstly, visit your local GP and ask to be referred to Specialised Urology (see referral details on the back of this brochure).
After receiving your referral, you will be contacted directly by the rooms for an initial consultation. This is an initial appointment and not the procedure itself. It is a requirement that all the information regarding the procedure is discussed, any questions you may have can be answered during this appointment.
We can then schedule your procedure upon completion of this appointment.
What are the costs associated?
Please contact the rooms to discuss further