How Can Urology Specialists Help You Prepare for a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a safe and effective method of permanent male birth control. It works by cutting or sealing the vas deferens tubes (thus “vas-ectomy”) that carry sperm during fertilization, therefore preventing pregnancy.
It is a low-risk procedure that should only be considered by men who are certain they do not wish to father a child in the future. Although it is possible to have the procedure reversed, a vasectomy reversal does not always enable the same level of fertility as before.
If you are considering having a vasectomy or are scheduled to have a vasectomy, your urology specialists will explain what you can expect from this relatively simple procedure. Let’s talk about a few of the key things that are involved in having a vasectomy, and where you can go in Concord and Charlotte for outstanding men’s health and urological care.
How to Prepare for a Vasectomy Procedure
Your urologist may ask you to stop taking certain medications or to make certain changes to your medication intake, one or more days prior to the procedure. Blood-thinning medications and various pain medications can interfere with healing after any kind of operation, including a minimally invasive one such as a vasectomy. That is why you need to give the urologist a complete list of the medications and supplements you take.
Be sure that you have arranged for someone to drive you to and from the appointment, as driving may put stress on the surgical site, which may delay recovery. Tight-fitting, supportive underwear is also recommended following the procedure in order to support the scrotum, minimize swelling, and reduce any movement.
How the Procedure Works
Most vasectomies these days are performed as a no-scalpel vasectomy. This involves making one small opening in the center of the scrotum, and through this opening the urologist will cut and seal the ends of the vas deferens tubes. Because the opening is so tiny, no stitches are necessary – the skin will heal naturally very quickly.
With these advances in surgery, a vasectomy can now be performed as a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, conveniently in your doctor’s office, and using only mild sedation. This helps to reduce the chances of postoperative complications and allows a much quicker recovery.
What to Expect After a Vasectomy
Following your vasectomy, you should take it easy and get plenty of rest for a day or two. Don’t strain yourself at all, and avoid heavy lifting.
There may be some mild bruising, swelling, and discomfort in the affected area. Applying an ice pack to the scrotum periodically for several days can also help to reduce any inflammation.
A simple post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA) test is used to check your sperm count following your vasectomy. To ensure you are sterile, a minimum of two semen tests are recommended before eliminating other birth control methods.
Urology Specialists in Concord, NC
If you are considering having a vasectomy, schedule a consultation with board-certified urologist Dr. Richard Natale of Carolina Urology Partners. Dr. Natale is a highly experienced urologist who routinely performs vasectomies and vasectomy reversals, and he will answer any and all questions you have about the procedure.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Natale, or to find out more about our other men’s health services, call us today at (704) 786-5131 or you can request an appointment online now. We look forward to being your healthcare partner.
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