Frequently Asked Questions

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Pioneer Valley Vasectomy and Men's Health has a team of experienced medical professionals, including board certified urologists, nurses, physician assistants, and medical assistants.

• A vasectomy is a surgical procedure where the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm from the testicles are blocked, preventing sperm from being released in semen. 
• It's a common and effective method of male birth control, with a very low failure rate. 
• It's a relatively simple procedure that can be done in a doctor's office under local anesthesia. 
• It does not affect sexual function, hormone levels, or semen production. 

• A small incision is made in the scrotum to access the vas deferens. 
• The tubes are either blocked or cut and sealed, preventing sperm from passing through. 
• The incision is then closed with stitches. 
• The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes. 

• Highly effective: Vasectomy is one of the most reliable forms of birth control, with a failure rate of less than 1%. 
• Permanent: Once a vasectomy is performed, it is a permanent form of birth control. 
• No effect on sexual function: Vasectomy does not affect sexual desire, performance, or ability to get an erection. 
• No effect on hormone levels: Vasectomy does not affect testosterone or other hormone levels. 
• No effect on semen production: Vasectomy does not affect the amount or quality of semen produced. 

• Short-term: Mild pain, swelling, bruising, or infection at the incision site are possible. 
• Long-term: Post-vasectomy pain syndrome (PVPS) and sperm granuloma are rare but possible long-term complications. 
• Failure: In rare cases, the vasectomy may fail, and sperm may still be present in the semen. 
• Reversal: Vasectomy reversal is possible, but it is not always successful.  

• Most men can return to work and normal activities within a few days. 
• Avoid strenuous activity or sexual intercourse for a week or until the swelling and pain subside. 
• Follow-up with your urologist for a semen analysis to confirm that the vasectomy has been successful. 
• Use another form of birth control until the semen analysis confirms that there are no sperm. 

• Does a vasectomy affect my sex life? No, a vasectomy does not affect sexual function, hormone levels, or semen production. 

• Can I have sex after a vasectomy? Yes, you can resume sexual activity after a week or when the swelling and pain subside. 

• How long does it take for a vasectomy to work? It takes several weeks for the sperm to clear from the vas deferens after a vasectomy, so it's important to use another form of birth control until a semen analysis confirms that there are no sperm. 

• Is a vasectomy reversible? Yes, vasectomy reversal is possible, but it is not always successful. 

• Does a vasectomy hurt? The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, and most men report minimal pain during and after the procedure. 

• Is a vasectomy safe? Yes, vasectomy is a safe and effective procedure with a low risk of complications.