Vasectomy
Vasectomy or male sterilisation is a simple and reliable method of contraception, chosen by many men who have decided that they do not want any or more children.
A vasectomy is a quick and simple procedure that usually takes 20-30 minutes to perform. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic as day case surgery. This means only your scrotum and testicles will be anaesthetised and you will be awake for the procedure. You will not feel any pain, although it may feel slightly uncomfortable, and you will be able to go home the same day.
Your procedure
Your consultant will make one or two small incisions in the scrotum. The two tubes (known as the vas) that carry sperm from the testicles are located by your consultant and a section removed. The ends of both vas are then tied and separated using a layer of tissue. The skin is closed with dissolving sutures which will take approximately two weeks to disappear.
Your aftercare
Twenty weeks after your procedure you will need to provide the clinic with a sample of your semen. This will be tested to confirm that your procedure has been successful and check that the vas has not regrown. Once the vasectomy is considered successful then further contraception can be stopped.
Next steps
You can refer yourself for a vasectomy or be referred by your GP or The Family Planning Service.
Appointments are available at The Edinburgh Clinic every weekday until early evening. At your initial consultation we will check your overall health to ensure that you are suitable to have the procedure under local anaesthetic. Your consultant will also explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. Vasectomy counselling, prior to the procedure, is an important aspect of your care and will be included in your initial consultation unless you have been referred from The Family Planning Service and have already received counselling.
Following your consultation, a convenient operation date will be booked to suit your schedule and with little or no waiting time.
Please note this is unlikely to be covered by any private medical insurance you may have.