FAQ
What is vasectomy?
Vasectomy is an effective form of permanent male contraception. It is a safe
and simple procedure compared with female sterilisation.
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What is No-Scalpel vasectomy (Key hole surgery)?
This is an advanced surgical procedure, which does not need the use of a
scalpel to make a cut in the scrotum. Under local anaesthetic, a small surgical
clamp is used on the
outside of the scrotum to hold the vas deferens. The vas is lifted through
a tiny keyhole made on the skin, heat-sealed and divided, then placed back
into the scrotum.
This is an advanced technique, not yet widely available (most hospitals
tend to use the old scalpel technique). The advantages of this procedure
compared with the traditional scalpel
method are:
- No stitches
- Less damage to the tissues
- Shorter operating time
- Fast recovery
- Reduced complications like pain, bleeding, haematoma (clot in the scrotum)
- Reduced risk of infection
How does it work?
Sperm is produced in the testes and carried along the tube, called the vas
deferens. It mixes with the seminal fluid near the prostate and is ejaculated
through the penis during intercourse.
When a vasectomy operation is carried out, the vas is divided to stop the
sperm reaching the seminal fluid and the penis. The ejaculation contains only
seminal fluid and no sperm.
A vasectomy will not affect the male hormone as the testosterone from the
testes continues to be released into the bloodstream directly. There is therefore
no need to worry about a loss of ‘masculinity’.
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Is it painful?
We all have different pain thresholds. However with the improved local anaesthetic
technique any discomfort will be reduced to a minimum. There may be some
minor discomfort while holding the testes for a short while.
No Scalpel Vasectomy aims to ensure that the operation is as pain-free as
possible for patients through the improved local anaesthetic technique and
the minimally invasive key hole surgery
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What are the risks?
A vasectomy is essentially a very safe, and relatively straightforward, procedure.
However, as in all surgical procedure there exists the potential for complications,
but the risks for the No Scalpel Vasectomy are minimal.
The vast majority of men experience no concerns whatsoever after having a
vasectomy.
In the minority of cases, the most common problems are likely
to be...
Short term:
- Mild pain or discomfort
- Bruise, minor bleeding,
- Haematoma (swelling of scrotum). About 1 in 1000
- Mild infection, occasionally requiring antibiotics
- Sperm granuloma (small swelling due to the leakage of sperm near
the divided end of the vas)
Most of these issues are self-limiting and resolve spontaneously without
the need to see a GP.If the problem persists, the patient will need to
contact Dr Navamani for advice or see their own GP.
- Persistent presence of a few non-motile (‘dead’) sperm
- Short term failure rate, 1 in 1000
To find out about the experiences of our patients, please see our post-discharge
survey.
Long term:
- Post vasectomy pain syndrome. This is a very rare condition. If there
is chronic pain, further treatment may be required.
- Recanalisation is where, very rarely, the tubes may rejoin naturally.
The Long term risk of failure is about 1 in 3000 operations. This cannot
be predicted,
but the method we use reduces this risk to an absolute minimum.
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Is vasectomy a popular contraception?
An increasing number of men are choosing a vasectomy because it is a simple,
relatively straightforward procedure and an effective form of permanent contraception.
It is safer and more popular than female sterilisation.
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Do I need my spouse’s/partner’s consent?
It is good to discuss with your spouse/partner, although the final decision
is yours.
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Do I need to tell my GP?
You can book an appointment direct with us without being referred by your
GP.
Your GP has your complete medical records and you may need his help in the
event of any concerns you may have after the operation.
We will always ask your permission before we write to your GP after the operation.
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I feel embarrassed
In view of the sensitive nature of the this particular subject, it is only
natural for some to feel slightly embarrassed. However, we pride ourselves
in the fact that you can talk to the doctor confidentially, in the knowledge
that our aim is to deliver the highest possible quality of care to you.
Our relaxed, informal surroundings have made any men feel comfortable. See
what previous patients have had to say about our service in our survey
We provide a personal and confidential service, maintaining privacy and dignity
at all times.
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How can I be sure I need vasectomy?
Are you sure you want a permanent form of contraception?
Is your family complete?
Are you in a stable relationship?
Would you consider having a family in case of a new relationship? How would
you feel if you had a vasectomy and your new partner wanted children?
How would you feel if, in the unfortunate event, something happened to your
child/children?
You may not be suitable for a vasectomy if :
You are very young and have no children.
Your current relationship is not
stable
You are under stress/suffering from depression
You are doing it just to please your spouse/partner
You are thinking of having a vasectomy reversal in case you change your mind
At the time of counselling we will discuss these issues with you thoroughly,
so as to ensure that you are certain that you wish to proceed with the vasectomy.
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Will it affect my sex drive?
No, sex drive is due to your sex hormone and psychological factors. You will
still produce your normal sex hormone.
By eliminating the fear of accidental pregnancy, the sex may be more relaxed
and enjoyable.
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Will I ejaculate normally
Yes, seminal fluid makes the 95% of the ejaculation; you will be able to have
a normal ejaculation.
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Making an appointment
To make an appointment you can either complete our online
contact form or
contact us by telephone on 01733 708120.
Our operating sessions are on Fridays and Saturdays. Appointments are made
for your convenience.
We will confirm the appointment with you, and will send you a medical history
form which you will need to complete and return to us before the date for
your operation. We will provide you with a map showing you how to find us.
Please note that, as this is a one-stop clinic, the operation will be carried
out on the same day. If you would prefer to have a consultation with Dr Navamani
first before deciding whether you would like to go ahead with the operation
at a later date, please advise us at the time of booking the appointment.
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What do I do on the day of operation?
If possible shave the front of scrotum, keep it clean and dry.
Wear snug fitting underwear to support the scrotum ( do not wear boxer shorts).
You don’t need to starve because the operation is carried out under
local anaesthetic, indeed we would recommend you have a light meal.
Bring your favourite CD with you, and we will play it in the operating theatre
during your procedure. We want you to feel as relaxed as possible.
If you are coming by car, we have ample car parking at the rear of the Health
Centre.
Please arrive in time for your appointment. Our vasectomy co-ordinator will
greet you, take your registration details and give you the initial counselling.
Then you will see Dr Sterlin Navamani for further counselling and examination.
Dr Navamani will want to discuss any current medication you are taking, any
medical condition you may have or any treatment you are receiving, as well
as details of any previous operations or injuries in the groin or scrotum.
Dr Navamani will need to know if you suffer from any allergies and whether
you have any bleeding disorder.
Details of current mediations you are taking and a history of any allergies
will also be required..
On rare occasions, the examination will reveal that the operation is not
possible under local anaesthesia in which case we will advise you to have
it undertaken
in a hospital setting under general anaesthetic.
Once you are satisfied that you definitely wish to proceed with the operation,
you will sign a consent form (see the attached
sample) ,
which Dr Navamani will countersign.
Our operating theatre Nurse will take you to the changing room, and then to
the theatre.
The operation will take about 15 to 20 minutes. We will keep you fully informed
at all times.
Once the procedure has been completed , you will change back into your clothes
and will be transferred to our recovery area.
Here you can enjoy a cup of tea/coffee with biscuits whilst reading the newspapers.
Your spouse/partner can join you at this point.
Our vasectomy co-ordinator will provide you with two specimen jars and a form
for the semen analysis.
We will also ask you to complete a questionnaire relating to the service you
have received.
Details of the contact number for Dr Navamani in the unlikely event of you
experiencing any problems in the first few hours after the operation will be
given to you.
Once you are happy that you are well enough to leave, you will be discharged.
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Can I drive home?
We would advise your spouse/partner/colleague to drive you home.
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After the operation
By the time you get home the anaesthetic may be wearing off and you will
be aware of an aching feeling, possibly worse on one side. This is perfectly
normal
and doesn’t mean there’s a problem on that side. Simple pain
relief with paracetamol or ibuprofen should suffice.
Don’t have a shower for 24 hours or a bath for 48 hours, and alcohol
should be avoided for the first couple of days.
If you have any concerns, in the first 2-3 hours after the operation, please
ring the contact number provided on the day. If you subsequently need to
speak to Doctor Navamani, during normal surgery hours, please ring the Health
Centre
number
(01733
708120).
If you have any concerns a few days after your operation, please contact
Dr Navamani or your own GP
The next day you should feel quite well and be able to engage in some light
domestic duties although you may continue to experience some slight discomfort.
After 2 or 3 days you may see some discolouration of the skin, resulting
from bruising, around your scrotum . This is perfectly normal and will disperse
after a
week or less. If you get a great deal of swelling of your scrotum, or worsening
pain, please get in touch with us or your own doctor as soon as possible.
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When can I go back to work?
If your job is non-manual or involves mainly light duties , you can normally
return to work within the next 1-2 days. If it involves heavy manual work you
should wait for a week.
The decision as to when you return to work is yours, essentially whenever
you feel ready to do so.
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When can I resume sex?
Usually within 7-10 days to allow time for the soft tissue to heal and for
you and your partner to feel comfortable.
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Can I stop using other contraception?
Not yet.
It will take time to clear the sperm from the rest of the vas. It may take
up to 20 or more ejaculations to clear the sperm.
At the time of the operation we give you 2 specimen jars and instructions
for delivering the specimens necessary for confirming your sterility direct
to a nominated Pathology laboratory (details will be given to you before you
are discharged).
When do I send a semen sample?
We ask you to send for semen test at 14 and 16 weeks to establish the absence
of sperm before giving you the all clear to stop using other forms of contraception.
After 14 weeks, collect a semen sample by masturbation
into
the specimen jar provided and secure the lid tightly. Place it in the envelope
provided and send it by post.
Repeat the process, two weeks later.
However if you have a small number of non-motile (‘dead’) sperm
present you will be asked to repeat the test. If the non-motile sperms continue
to show you will be asked to give further monthly specimens until 6 months
after your operation .
If there is a persistence of motile (‘live’) sperm, this may
indicate early recanalisation. This is fairly rare, but if it happens we
will need to
repeat the vasectomy or rely on some other form of contraception
How will I know the results of the specimens?
The results of the specimens will be sent to Dr Navamani. After he has received
the result of the second specimen he will write to you, either to give you
the ‘all clear’ or to ask you to submit a further specimen or
specimens.
What happens if I don’t submit the requested specimens?
If you fail to submit the requested specimens for laboratory analysis, we
will be unable to confirm your sterility and you will need to rely on an
alternative form of contraception.
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Patients Surveys
We like to know what our patients think of the service we are providing
to constantly improve it. To this end, we ask patients to complete a questionnaire
before being discharged. We also ask patients to complete a further questionnaire
three
months after
their operation.
The results of the most recent surveys we have undertaken can be viewed
here.
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Our Fees
Our fees include the consultation, injections, operation, drugs and dressing
used and immediate post operation (queries) follow up and seminal tests: £275.00
Other minor surgical procedure varies from £200.00
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