Vasectomy in Greensboro, NC

A vasectomy is a form of birth control during which the small tubes that carry sperm, called the vas deferens, are cut and sealed. When the tube is cut and sealed, there is no way for sperm to leave your body and cause pregnancy. This procedure is considered a permanent form of birth control, but it is possible to have a reversal surgery should the patient change their mind in the future. 

If you are considering a vasectomy, contact Dr. Luke Machen to discuss the benefits of a vasectomy and if the procedure is right for you. To schedule your vasectomy consultation at our men’s health clinic in Greensboro, NC, please call 336-274-1114 or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Benefits of a Vasectomy

It is recommended that men only get a vasectomy when they are certain that they no longer wish to have children. It is the preferred choice for many couples because:

• The use of male birth control (condoms) or female birth control (pills, IUDs, etc.) is no longer needed.
• The procedure is quick and typically can be done in-office without anesthesia
• The procedure is over 99% effective at to preventing pregnancy, making it the most effective form of permanent birth control .
• It is much less expensive than female sterilization.

Vasectomy Types

In most cases, a vasectomy will be performed in-office and is considered an outpatient procedure. Full-anesthesia is not required, only a local anesthetic is necessary. There are two ways to complete this procedure.

Traditional Vasectomy

The surgeon will use a scalpel to create two small incisions on either side of the scrotum. The surgeon will remove a small section of the vas deferens. The tubes are tied, or cauterized so that they are closed and can no longer transport sperm.

No-Scalpel Vasectomy

A no-scalpel vasectomy is less invasive than the traditional vasectomy and does not use incisions, rather, the surgeon is able to access the vas deferens through very small holes. Since it’s less invasive, there is a lower risk of bleeding and infection, and typically less discomfort during and after the procedure when compared to the traditional vasectomy. No stitches are needed for this form of surgery. Dr Machen does the No-Scalpel technique for all of his vasectomies

Recovery After the Procedure

Immediately following a vasectomy, there may be bruising and swelling, but those symptoms should subside after a few days. You can take ibuprofen and apply ice packs to help control these symptoms. Wear tight-fitting underwear so that the scrotum is provided extra support. 

Stay off of your feet for two or three days, and avoid strenuous activity or exercise for one week. It’s OK to shower 2 days after the procedure, but you should avoid completely submerging yourself (for example bathtubs, swimming pools, hot tubs) for 1 week. 

Most patients are able to return to their normal lives after one week. 

Sex After a Vasectomy

Wait at least one week before having sexual intercourse. Keep in mind, you are not sterile right away. Ejaculate may still contain sperm and may continue to for several months after the procedure. After 8-12 weeks, the doctor will check sperm levels to confirm that you are sterile.

The vasectomy will not affect your sex drive and orgasms.