You’ve been thinking about it for a while, and you’ve decided that having a vasectomy procedure is the right choice for you.

You’re not interested in having children, and you don’t want to have to worry about using condoms and other methods of birth control. The one thing holding you back?

The thought of having a scalpel anywhere near that part of your body.

Vasectomies have been steadily on the rise over the past few years, and the increase in popularity has led to the development of new and scalpel-free methods.

Want to learn more about a no-scalpel vasectomy?

Read on to learn more.

No-Scalpel Vasectomy vs Traditional Vasectomy

The main goal of any type of vasectomy procedure is to prevent the vans deferens ducts from being able to transport sperm from your testicles to your urethra.

This means that the sperm will not be able to mix with your semen, so you’re unable to reproduce.

In a traditional vasectomy, this is accomplished by creating a tiny incision on both sides of your scrotum.

In a no-scalpel procedure, however, a vasectomy clamp on the outside of the scrotum holds the van deferens. A tiny needle will create a small hole in your scrotum in order to reach the ducts.

While both procedures are equally effective, a scalpelless vasectomy usually offers a faster overall recovery time and much less bleeding. Additionally, a no-scalpel option carries a much lower infection rate and far fewer hematomas.

Plus, there is less pain associated with a no-scalpel vasectomy, which is perhaps the main reason for its popularity.

Before Your Procedure

Now, let’s talk about what you need to do to properly prepare for the procedure.

The good news is that you’ll be able to return home the same day, so you won’t need to bring an overnight bag.

At least 48 hours before your procedure is scheduled, do not take any kind of NSAIDs like naproxen and ibuprofen. These medications will increase the risk of severe bleeding. Take a look at this list of the most common NSAIDs so you’ll know exactly what to avoid.

Make sure you speak with your doctor about any supplements and medication you’re taking. While you’ll be able to continue taking most of them, there may be some that you need to avoid in the days leading up the procedure.

The most important thing to bring with you is a jockstrap to wear for support and protection after your procedure. You should also wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing, and may need to trim your pubic hair before the procedure.

During the Procedure

Directly before the procedure, you’ll be given local anesthesia in the scrotum or groin.

You will also likely be offered a sedative to calm your anxiety. Just remember that, if you do opt to take the sedative, you should have someone else drive you home.

The doctor locates the vans deferens and the clamp is placed underneath the skin. Then, the doctor creates a tiny hole in the scrotum so that they can pull the vans deferens through it. Then, the vans deferens are cut and sealed with clamps, stitches, or are simply tied off.

Then, the vans deferens are put back into place, and the procedure is finished.

The procedure should be over in as little as half an hour.

Recovery from a No-Scalpel Vasectomy

The recovery process from a no-scalpel vasectomy is much less intense and shorter than that of a traditional vasectomy.

You’ll be given painkillers (usually just acetaminophen) and your doctor will give you specific instructions on proper care of the scrotum. Though the incisions will heal naturally, you will still need to change the gauze on your own.

You may take a shower the same day as your procedure, but make sure that you avoid rubbing the scrotum dry. Instead, just gently pay the area.

You shouldn’t have sex or masturbate for at least a week after the vasectomy. You’ll also need to avoid strenuous activities — including hitting the gym — for a week or so after the procedure. (Going on brief walks is fine.)

You may use an ice pack to help you to manage the pain and swelling.

If you experience any complications, or if the pain is extremely intense, reach out to your doctor right away. Be on the lookout for difficulty urinating, swelling and redness for several days after the procedure, and pus/oozing from your scrotum.

You may need to have a urology exam to ensure that there are no other issues.

Finally, be aware that you’ll still need to use birth control methods like condoms for about 6 months after your procedure, as your semen may still contain sperm.

Usually, your doctor will ask you to provide samples of your semen in the months following the procedure to ensure everything is on the right track.

Is a No-Scalpel Vasectomy Right for You?

We hope that this post has helped you to feel much more comfortable about what to expect from a no-scalpel vasectomy procedure.

While the idea may seem intimidating at first, a scalpel-free option comes with a much lower risk of complications and a shorter healing time.

When you know you don’t want any children at all, or if you’re happy with the number of children you currently have, a vasectomy is a worry-free and long-term way to prevent pregnancy.

Click here to schedule your appointment online, and always feel free to reach out to us with any questions.

In addition to vasectomies, we can also help you to treat, diagnose, and manage numerous other urological issues in men and women. We look forward to having you in our office soon.