Vasectomy

McFarland Clinic Urologists perform minimally invasive vasectomy as an outpatient procedure. To find out how vasectomy can benefit you, call McFarland Clinic Urology or schedule an appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vasectomies

How Does a Vasectomy Work?

During a vasectomy, a urologist divides the tubes (vas deferens) that transport sperm from the testicle. After a vasectomy ejaculation will look and feel the same, but since the vas deferens is blocked no sperm can get to the ejaculate fluid.

What Happens During a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is an office-based procedure that only takes a few minutes. You can go home right away after it’s done. After examining you and discussing the procedure the urologist will perform the procedure through 1 or 2 small openings the size of a pencil eraser in the scrotum. Most patients do not have pain during the procedure.

What to Expect After a Vasectomy

You can drive yourself home after the procedure. Pain is usually minimal after the procedure and can be treated with Tylenol and an ice pack if needed. Swelling is possible but is usually mild. The risk of bleeding is <1%.

It takes about 3 months for your semen to be free of sperm. Before relying on vasectomy for birth control your urologist needs to check your semen sample around 90 days after the procedure. An alternative form of birth control should be used until that time.

Are There Any Risks with a Vasectomy?

• Vasectomy should be viewed as a permanent procedure. Vasectomy reversal is possible but not 100% effective.
• After the surgery, you could have temporary pain, bruising, or an infection that needs to be treated with an antibiotic.
• A vasectomy doesn’t protect against STIs/STDs, including HIV. You should still use condoms to protect yourself from STIs.

Schedule Your Vasectomy

Call McFarland Clinic Urology at 515-239-4490 or select your provider and time below.