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Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a surgical procedure performed on males as a permanent method of contraception, meaning it is intended to prevent pregnancy.
Purpose: The primary purpose of a vasectomy is to permanently prevent the release of sperm during ejaculation, thereby making a man sterile and unable to father children.
Procedure: During a vasectomy, the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra, are cut and each end tied with a non-absorbable suture. This is done through a small 1cm single midline scrotal incision in the scrotum under either local or general anasthesia.
Effectiveness: Vasectomy is highly effective as a method of contraception, with a success rate of over 99%. However, it’s important to note that it takes some time for the remaining sperm to be cleared from the reproductive tract, so couples should use alternative forms of contraception until a follow-up semen analysis confirms that the semen is free of sperm.
Recovery: Vasectomy is a minor procedure that can be performed under local or general anaesthetic as a day case. Most men can resume normal activities within a few days of the procedure. Some discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the scrotal area is common after the procedure, but complications are rare. Supportive ‘jock’ underwear is recommended to reduce pain and swelling. Skin sutures are dissolvable.
Effect on Sexual Function: Vasectomy does not affect a man’s ability to have erections, ejaculate, or enjoy sexual intercourse. The only difference is that the ejaculate will no longer contain sperm.
While vasectomy is considered a permanent form of contraception, it is possible to attempt a surgical procedure called vasectomy reversal to reconnect the vas deferens. However, vasectomy reversal is not always successful, and the success rates vary depending on factors such as the length of time since the vasectomy and the surgical technique used.
Before undergoing a vasectomy, men are typically counselled about the permanent nature of the procedure and encouraged to consider factors such as their age, desire for future children, and the availability of alternative contraceptive methods.
Please ring the collection centre to arrange a suitable time to bring in the specimen. Samples can be dropped at the Laboratory.
Please take your specimen to :
Western Diagnostic Pathology
59 Winnellie Road, Winnellie NT
P : 8901 7900
It is recommended that the post vasectomy sample is collected when there have been at least 25 ejaculations in the previous 12 weeks.