There are many fears and myths surrounding vasectomy but we can dispel two of the main ones now:
Click or scroll down to find the answers to more questions that men commonly ask us...
It is a minor surgical procedure to seal the sperm carrying tubes (called Vas Deferens); preventing sperm from getting into the fluid you ejaculate.
Any man who decides that his family is complete or who is certain that he does not want any children. Because it is a permanent procedure, you have to be absolutely sure about your decision.
Vasectomy is probably the most effective method of contraception that exists. The failure rate is less than 1 %( 1 in 100).
A fast acting local anaesthetic is given before the procedure, which numbs the area. At reproductive choices we use a safe cautery technique, which does not require a scalpel and no stitches are needed. The vasectomy procedure only takes about 10 minutes to perform.
A fast acting local anaesthetic is given before starting the vasectomy, which starts working straight away and will make the area feel numb. The procedure only takes a few minutes and apart from a mild discomfort there should be no pain during the treatment. Painkillers help to relieve any discomfort after the treatment as the anaesthetic wears off. Men often tell us that they were surprised how pain free the procedure is.
We need to know about any previous testicular surgery or hernia repair. Scar tissue from these procedures can make the vasectomy a little more complicated. Also it is important for your safety for us to be aware of other significant conditions such as chest or heart problems and hepatitis.
There is no firm evidence linking vasectomy to cancer of the prostate or testicles. But we advise all men, whether or not they have had a vasectomy to have regular health screening. It is important to get into the habit of regularly checking your own testicles for lumps.
Vasectomy should be seen as a permanent method of contraception. No one should consider it if they are not sure or think they can have it reversed at some time. Although it can be reversed, this involves microsurgery and the success rate is low. If you are not sure we can always discuss other forms of contraception with you.
There are very few contraception methods for men: either vasectomy or condoms. There are quite a number of female methods including female sterilisation, IUD’s (coils), pills, caps, implants and injections. If you or your partner need any information about other forms of contraception please contact us.
With no change to your hormones, ejaculation or orgasm, there is no reason why having a vasectomy should have a negative impact on your sex life. In fact, many couples find vasectomy improves their sex life –enjoying greater sexual freedom once they no longer have the worry an unintended pregnancy.
On the day of treatment you are at the centre for about an hour. It is a good idea to take things easy for a day or two. If you have a physically demanding job we advise you take a week off. Travelling overseas is not advisable for about a week. We can always give advice on particular situations.
You should avoid going to the gym or playing physical sports such as squash, football or rugby for a couple of weeks. It is a good idea to avoid cycling for a month.
NO. It takes up to three or four months to clear any sperm from the system and you will need to use another method of contraception during this time. We ask you to supply sperm samples at 12 and 14 weeks after the procedure, which we will test to see if the procedure has been successful. If it is successful you can stop using other contraceptive methods.
The cost of a vasectomy at the Marie Stopes Reproductive Choices Centre is €499 May Special - €399 (deposit €100). This includes the consultation and counselling, procedure, all aftercare and post operative semen testing.
To receive a free information pack with details of how to book an appointment please call us (01) 830 0630 or click here to request one.
Dublin (01) 830 0630
info@reproductivechoices.ie
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