Let’s get one thing out of the way straight away: having a vasectomy does not mean you’ll start hitting high notes you never knew you had. Your voice, your masculinity and your sex drive will all remain firmly intact. What changes is simply your ability to make your partner pregnant. That’s it!
The no-scalpel vasectomy is a safe, quick and highly effective form of contraception for men who are sure their family is complete. And because the words ‘surgery’ and ‘down there’ understandably make many men cross their legs in sympathy, let’s clear up a few myths and answer some common questions.
What actually happens?
Unlike the traditional method, a no-scalpel vasectomy doesn’t involve any stitches or big incisions. Instead, a tiny puncture is made in the skin of the scrotum, the tubes carrying sperm are reached, sealed, and the puncture heals on its own. The non-invasive procedure is done under local anaesthetic, takes around 15 minutes and you’ll be back on the sofa with a cuppa before you know it.
Does it hurt?
This is one of the most common questions – and the answer is reassuring. You’ll feel a small amount of discomfort when the anaesthetic is given, but once it’s working, the procedure itself should be pain-free. Some mild aching or bruising afterwards is normal, can be eased by over-the-counter pain relief, and usually settles in a week or two.
How soon can I return to work?
If your job is mainly sitting at a desk, you should be fine to return after 48 hours. If it’s more physical – think lifting, climbing or building – take at least a week off to fully recover.
Will sex change?
In short: no. You’ll still produce the same amount of semen, your hormones won’t change, and your erections and climaxes will all stay the same. The only difference is that sperm will no longer be part of the mix. In fact, many men report that sex becomes more pleasurable without the worry of accidental pregnancy or having to think about other contraception.
When will I be sterile?
Not immediately. After the procedure, live sperm can remain for several weeks. It usually takes around 16 weeks and 25 ejaculations to clear them completely. You’ll be asked to send a semen sample to the lab at 16 weeks to confirm the all-clear. Until then, keep using contraception.
Can it be reversed?
As with all vasectomies, no-scalpel vasectomies should be considered permanent. While reversal operations exist, they are expensive, complicated, and often unsuccessful. If you’re not completely sure that you don’t want to father children if future, it may not be the right choice for you.
Are there any other risks?
Vasectomy is one of the safest surgical procedures around. Contrary to some of the myths you may have heard, long-term studies show no increased risk of cancer, heart disease or other health problems and it doesn’t cause weight gain. Post-vasectomy pain syndrome is very rare. And no, it won’t protect you from sexually transmitted infections – you’ll still need to use a condom for this.
In summary
No-scalpel vasectomy is quick, safe and effective. You’ll need to take things easy for a few days afterwards, swap to snug underwear, and remember to send in that all-important semen sample. But your sex life, masculinity, and vocal pitch will remain gloriously unchanged.
Now you’ve got all the facts, is a no-scalpel vasectomy the right choice for you?
Find out about our self-pay and NHS-referred no-scalpel vasectomy service, here at Provide Wellbeing. On our dedicated page, you’ll find comprehensive information about the procedure, aftercare and the NHS and self-pay options. The service is available from a variety of clinics across Essex, Suffolk and Hertfordshire.
Our self-pay option is just £495 and is available from our Clinic Centre on The Crescent, Colchester. You can book an appointment at your own convenience with short waiting times.
Talk to us today on 0300 303 9966 from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, or email us hello@providewellbeing.co.uk and we will respond within 24 hours.
