Vasectomy

Hattiesburg Clinic specializes in vasectomy procedures and vasectomy reversals in Mississippi.

Vasectomy Overview

The experienced urologists and highly trained staff at Hattiesburg Clinic are experts in male reproductive health and offer the vasectomy procedure to patients in Mississippi. Our skilled surgeons use great care and precision when performing vasectomy procedures. Our physicians are certified by the American Urological Association and have performed over 20,000 vasectomies.

We understand the sensitive nature and personal decisions that individuals are presented with when it comes to a vasectomy, and our caring team is here to guide you every step of the way. In addition to the traditional vasectomy procedure, Hattiesburg Clinic urologists are also skilled in the No-Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) technique, as well as vasectomy reversal.

What is a vasectomy?
Types of Vasectomies
What are the risks of a vasectomy?
What can I expect during a vasectomy?
How long is recovery after a vasectomy?
What should I expect during recovery from a vasectomy?
Does a vasectomy affect sexual activity?
Can a vasectomy be reversed?
Should I have a vasectomy?
How do I know if this procedure is right for me?
Is a vasectomy covered by insurance?
What does a vasectomy cost?
Choose the Vasectomy Specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic

What is a vasectomy?

During the surgical procedure the vas deferens, the tubes that transport the sperm from the testicles to the urethra, are cut and sealed. This process renders male sterilization as it prevents the sperm from reaching the semen. It is the only change made to the reproductive system. The testicles will continue to produce sperm but the sperm will die and is absorbed by the body.

Vasectomy surgery has been considered the most effective form of contraception for men for many years. The failure rate of a vasectomy is significantly low. However, while extremely rare, it is possible for sperm to cross the severed ends of the vas deferens. While vasectomies are safe and effective for preventing pregnancy, the procedure does not protect against transmitting diseases.

Types of Vasectomies

A vasectomy is an outpatient procedure performed by a board-certified urologist in our state-of-the-art surgery center. There are two techniques for how the procedure is performed and both use local anesthesia to numb the area.

Conventional Vasectomy – Two small incisions are made in the skin of the scrotum in order to access the vas deferens. The vas deferens is then cut and a small portion is removed leaving a small gap between the two ends. The ends are tied, and the method is repeated on the opposite side.

No-Scalpel Vasectomy – The urologist locates the vas deferens below the skin of the scrotum and will clamp it in place. A tiny hole is then made in the skin and is stretched open so the vas deferens can be gently lifted out. It is then cut, tied or cauterized and returned to place. With this approach, patients are expected to heal quickly and with little to no scarring. As there are no cuts made, there is little to no bleeding and no stitches necessary.

What are the risks of a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is very safe, but as with all surgeries, it can carry some risks. It is important to speak with your doctor about any concerns you have. Other risks may be expected depending on each individual and their specific health condition. The most common side effects are short-term inflammation and pain. These can be treated with medication.

What can I expect during a vasectomy?

A vasectomy procedure is outpatient and performed in our office, meaning an overnight stay is not required. To ensure the patient is most comfortable during the procedure, he is sedated and the lower groin is numbed. This process helps to prevent the patient from being in pain during the surgery.

How long is recovery after a vasectomy?

Because each patient is unique, the recovery process may vary. However, the average recommended recovery time is two days. To avoid complications, the patient should stay off of his feet as much as possible during the recovery time.

What should I expect during recovery from a vasectomy?

During recovery, active sperm will remain in the reproductive system and will take time before they are completely gone. Until an exam is conducted to ensure that the patient is sterile, other contraceptives should be used to prevent pregnancy. After the procedure, the body will continue to produce sperm. However, since it no longer has an outlet from the body, the sperm dies and is absorbed by the body.

After the procedure, the recommended recovery time is two days. However, this can vary based on the patient. To avoid complications, the patient should stay off of his feet as much as possible during the recovery time.

Does a vasectomy affect sexual activity?

The procedure does not cause any changes that would interfere with sexual activity.

Can a vasectomy be reversed?

Although a vasectomy reversal can be a possibility, it is not guaranteed. Having the procedure reversed is not something that should be considered before having a vasectomy.

Should I have a vasectomy?

Having a vasectomy must be considered a permanent decision. Before having a vasectomy, our providers can educate you on the preparation, procedure and recovery process associated with the procedure.

No matter the reason for considering a vasectomy, you should ask yourself if future situations could lead you to want children. If you or your partner are unsure about permanent birth control, you should explore other forms of contraception.

How do I know if this procedure is right for me?

Most men choosing this procedure are confident that their family is complete. Before having a vasectomy, you should be confident that there is no circumstance that could lead you to want children in the future. No matter what age or stage of life, a vasectomy should be a well-thought decision that is considered permanent.

Is a vasectomy covered by insurance?

Many insurance companies cover most of the cost of a vasectomy. However, insurance coverage varies and cost to the patient will be discussed during an initial consultation.

What does a vasectomy cost?

This procedure is considered elective, but many insurance companies cover the cost. Because this varies by patient, this will be discussed during the initial consultation. To schedule a one-on-one consultation with one of our board-certified urologists, please call (601) 268-5888.

Choose the Vasectomy Specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic

Hattiesburg Clinic offers vasectomy surgery as an effective form of contraception for men. Males who wish to become sterile should consult with a urologist to learn more about the procedure, discuss their options and address any underlying health conditions. It is important that the patient considers a vasectomy a permanent sterilization method. Although vasectomies can be reversed, the reversal procedure is not always successful. If you are interested in speaking with one of our urologists, please call (601) 268-5888 to schedule your consultation.