Following the procedure, the doctor's office will give you self care instructions. Be sure you understand them before leaving the facility and that you follow their orders carefully.
Because the surgeon uses a local anesthetic, the scrotum will be numb for a period of time following the procedure. As the anesthetic wears off, the area will be anywhere from tender to painful. Generally there is some bruising and swelling. Urination should be as normal but there may be some discomfort. It is usually recommended that someone else do the driving to avoid undue strain or pressure on the surgical site.
Discomfort can be kept to a minimum if you use slightly tight supportive underwear which will help protect the genital area including the stitches. Using an ice pack or cold compress for 10 to 20-minute intervals several times a day should reduce the swelling and pain. You can take acetaminophen but avoid aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen as they might increase bruising or bleeding. Wait for about a day or two before showering, unless the doctor recommends otherwise. Do not lift anything over 10 pounds, exercise, or have sex within a few days of the procedure. Keep an eye on the area and if you notice any pus, redness, bleeding or increased swelling, contact your doctor.
Take it easy and rest for at least two days. After that time you will be able to remove the bandages and wear looser underwear. As long as your job does not require lifting or excessive movement, you can return to work.
After about a week, the pain and swelling in the area should have dissipated for the most part. Most of the healing should have taken place and you shouldn't need any bandages at that point. If you feel like it, you can resume light exercise. Sex is acceptable, but remember there may still be sperm in the semen and you will need to send in a sperm test or semen test, which you can do easily by mail from home. It is best to use a condom or other birth control for as much as a few months until you have had 2 negative tests. It will take at least 15 - 20 ejaculations before the semen is sperm free, and sometimes more.
During that first week, you should still be cautious about heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
The follow-up visit is usually six to twelve weeks after the procedure. However, if you have any concerns, contact the doctor's office for advice or a sooner visit. Once the doctor has released you from treatment, you should be able to resume your normal activities.
A vasectomy is not a prevention for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
As with any medical procedure, there can be complications including some bleeding or other discharge, nausea or decreased appetite. If you spike a fever, are unable to urinate, or feel you have an infection, seek emergency care.
There should be only about a 1% chance of pregnancy following a vasectomy with proper follow-up tests and care, this is why getting semen tests regularly to check for sperm is important.
]]>Fortunately, YES, you can reverse a vasectomy. But how exactly is this done?
Two methods can be performed.
The first method is a vasovasostomy, a procedure where the doctor will sew the ends of the vas deferens back together to reconnect the tube.
The second method is vasoepididymostomy. This is when the doctor will attach the vas deference to the small organ located at the back of the testicles holding sperm. This method is actually more difficult than the first, with doctors only choosing this method if you are unable to have a vasovasostomy or think it won't be effective.
A vasectomy reversal would happen in a clinic or hospital. You will be given an anesthetic, so you won't be awake or feel anything throughout the procedure. The procedure can take between 2-4 hours, and like a vasectomy, you can go home within the day, with full recovery taking about two weeks, depending on your pain tolerance and how well you care for yourself during those days.
You can reverse vasectomies multiple times, through the success rate might decrease with every reversal.
Like most surgical procedures, there are side effects. However, they are extremely rare, and if they do occur, they include:
However, if the pain and discomfort get too intense that medication can’t solve it, then it’s best to contact your doctor immediately.
If you’re wondering whether or not the reversal procedure will affect your sex life, it won’t. However, you shouldn’t ejaculate or have sex until you get the go signal from the doctor, which is in about 2-3 weeks after the procedure.
You will know if the vasectomy reversal was successful if you take a test to see if sperm appears in your semen after a couple of months. The doctor collects samples and will examine them for 4-6 months, which is enough time for your sperm counts to stabilize.
You can use a mail-in testing kit like Male From Home to see if you have live sperm in your semen.
For those who underwent a vasovasostomy, it may take between 6-12 months before sperm return. For those who had a vasoepididymostomy, it might take over a year before it does.
Once sperm is back in your semen, you have more chances to conceive. But the success of the reversal would depend on various factors, such as the type of vasectomy you had, as well as other factors that may keep you and your partner from conceiving.
Hopefully, this article gave insight and answered your question, “can you reverse a vasectomy?” If you would like to reverse your procedure, talk with your urologist about the options you have, and weigh the pros and cons of the reversal. Good luck!
]]>It is crucial to ensure that all sperm have been cleared out of vas deferens. All sperm clear in almost 25 to 30 ejaculations (1).
Vasectomy is believed to be pretty darn effective, but there is still a 1% chance of vasectomy failure. Therefore, post-vasectomy semen testing is recommended by doctors to ensure complete azoospermia. Moreover, it is important to note that it takes two to three weeks for the scrotum to heal after a vasectomy. Therefore, you should wait until the sperm count is zero to have intercourse without other forms of birth control (2).
The estimated time for a male to become sterile after a vasectomy is three months. A male is considered sterile when the sperm count becomes zero (azoospermia) or the semen shows <100,000 sperm count (non-motile) (3). But this does not mean that you cannot ejaculate. You can ejaculate as before; the only difference is that your semen will not contain any sperms.
Zero sperm count should not be confused with sexual dysfunction. Even if you have zero sperm count; your sexual organs will work as normal (4).
You might feel uncomfortable in the first two to three ejaculations, but it will last only for a few days. If you feel more pain, redness, and swelling in the scrotal area, visit your doctor for advice.
The vasectomy procedure aims to be the permanent blockage of vas deferens so that sperm cannot reach the female reproductive tract (5). After getting a vasectomy, your testes will carry the sperm. Semen will still carry a few sperms, but these sperms cannot pass through the vas deferens because the body absorbs them.
People, after getting a vasectomy do not observe any changes in their ejaculate or its appearance. They also do not observe any change in their sexual function or sexual drive.
References:
Sources:
]]>This article explains about semen testing, why it is done, and how to prepare for it.
Semen analysis is performed to check the overall viability and health of sperm, following your vasectomy procedure. Semen is an organic fluid, which contains sperm as well as sugar and protein substances (1).
A semen analysis can measure:
Doctors recommend two semen analyses to confirm whether the sperm count is zero or not. Additionally, it is important to note that the result of your semen analysis is only good for that date and time. A vasectomy can fail at any time and therefore sperm can become present again in your system, even though you have previously received a semen analysis that determined “no sperm present”.
Semen analysis is important for checking:
Here are some instructions which you can follow to prepare for the semen analysis:
After you have collected your semen sample, your doctor or lab will conduct the semen analysis. (You can use at-home testing kits to send a semen sample to a lab for vasectomy testing purposes.) A semen analysis will determine the success of the vasectomy.
For the most convenient testing, visit Male From Home to order a testing kit in the mail
References:
Vasectomy is an outpatient birth-control procedure in men, which is performed by cutting or sealing vas deferens (tubes that carry sperm), which stop the sperm from mixing into semen
Additionally, vasectomies are considered permanent and can be difficult to be reversed. Even if vasectomies can be reversed in some cases, there are chances that you cannot get your fertility back. Therefore, before getting a vasectomy, make sure you are well-aware of its pros and cons.
Initially, a vasectomy might sound unpleasant and uncomfortable, but it is a simple procedure with temporary discomfort. There are many benefits that vasectomies offer:
Like any other medical procedure, vasectomies carry potential risks with them. Therefore, before making your decision, make sure you are well aware of the negative consequences of vasectomy.
References:
One thing many men have wondered is, “do you still ejaculate after a vasectomy?” This is a common question and a worry for some, as they would still like to enjoy their sex life and experience ejaculation.
Read on as I explain how vasectomies affect ejaculation.
Do You Still Ejaculate After a Vasectomy?
The short answer: Ejaculation after vasectomies would remain the same, just as it was prior to the procedure. There will be no change in the patient’s ability to ejaculate, nor would it change the appearance and consistency of semen.
The only difference in the ejaculation is that there is no sperm in the semen. There will also be no difference in feeling, both from the patient and his sexual partner/s, as sperm would only make up for about 2-5% of ejaculation, so there is not much of a difference in volume as well.
With that in mind, there are some things to know about after the procedure, in terms of sex and ejaculation.
Men who were able to get erections and ejaculate before the procedure will still be able to do so afterward. Again, the only change is that there will be no sperm. However, most patients would feel pain and discomfort in the testicles, which is normal, due to the surgical incisions.
It's advised to wait for a few days after the procedure before masturbating or having sex, which prevents irritating any swollen or sensitive issues. Afterward, you can resume your typical sexual activity and other daily activities. However, if there is still some questionable discomfort after a few weeks, do have it checked with the doctor.
When the pain and swelling go away, patients can resume sexual activity as normal without risk of pain and infection. With that said, it's still best to use other birth control methods such as condoms, at least for a few months after the procedure. This is because the vasectomy won't work immediately, with sperm still present for a few weeks.
Furthermore, vasectomies won’t protect you against any sexually transmitted diseases, so if you have multiple sexual partners (or your partner does), it’s best to stick with other forms of contraceptives.
After a few weeks (typically 2 months), you will go for a follow-up test to check for sperm content in the semen. Once sperm-free, one will be able to have sex without the risk of pregnancy and the need for other birth control methods.
It’s safe to masturbate after the wounds heal, and the pain and swelling disappear. There’s no need to take additional precautions before masturbating. Similar to what’s mentioned above, after 20-30 ejaculations or 2-3 months, you can have your sperm count checked through a sperm analysis.
The test will be done by masturbating into a cup to provide semen samples. And again, when sperm-free, you can have sex without the risk of conception.
Note that while ejaculation is normal, your testes will continue creating sperm after the procedure, it just won’t pass through the vas deferens. The sperm will simple be absorbed in your body, and you won’t need to worry about negative effects.
Following Up
Fortunately, there is no difference in ejaculation after a vasectomy, nor will there be a negative effect on one's sex life. It may make it more pleasurable for some with the confidence that there isn't a risk of unwanted pregnancies.
After your first two, be sure that you get a yearly sample checked by MaleFromHome.com
I hope that this article answered your question, “do you still ejaculate after a vasectomy?” Now that you know the answer, you can delve deeper into what the procedure entails to measure its pros and cons. Do talk with your doctor to consider your options to see if a vasectomy is best for you.
]]>It is foremost for the wound to heal first. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the physical activity for 1 week after the procedure (2).
If there is swelling around the scrotum, it can interfere during sex. Physical activity is also involved in sexual activities. It is better to wait until all the symptoms subside to avoid pain at the wound site. There are chances of further delay in recovery, or injuries may occur if sexual activities are performed before healing (1).
When the sperm count falls to zero, a person becomes sterile. After the vasectomy, a person may ejaculate but with a difference. His semen will be sperm free. A person may become sperm free approximately after 12 weeks of the vasectomy. (2). Sterility should be confirmed by receiving a result of “no sperm seen” after completing two negative semen tests. MalefromHome.com offers easy sperm tests you can mail in from home!
After the vasectomy, there are chances that some sperm may still be present in the semen after weeks or months. Birth control methods should be used, and unprotected sex should be avoided until it is proved that sterility is achieved (3).
Vasectomy does not affect the hormones. If the erection was achieved before, there would be no difference in the sexual drive or the sexual activities after vasectomy.
There would be no change in the feelings of ejaculation. The quantity, appearance, or texture of the semen remain almost unchanged. However, the first few ejaculations after the procedure may be uncomfortable.
References
Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326741#healing-time
http://tau.amegroups.com/article/view/16070/16235
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2685157
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Ejaculated sperm remain alive and well for several days inside the female reproductive system.
Asian men produce low volumes of semen, but have high sperm concentrations. White men have low sperm concentrations, but produce high volumes of semen 1
Each sperm contains X and Y chromosome. It is just a myth that male sperms are produced more than female sperms.
According to a study, 51% of newborns are male. This is because the female sperms are heavier and longer than male sperms and they require more time to swim towards the ovum
Through in-vitro fertilization, it is possible for a dead sperm to fertilize the egg. In IVF, sperms are inserted inside the egg with a robotically controlled glass straw. The reason is that it is the DNA that matters! Yet, it is still a matter of debate because of ethical values
Semen and sperm are two different terms which people misunderstand. Sperms are packed with DNA and fertilize with egg. Sperms are “DNA-carriers “while semen is a fluid which is “sperm-carrier.”
Sperms get their energy from the fluid of semen (seminal vesicles). Without getting energy, sperms cannot survive within the female body
It’s not just only the heat released from a scorching laptop that can kill or damage your sperms. The WiFi connection can definitely harm both sperm and eggs. Radiofrequency electromagnetic waves activate oxidative harm to sperms.
Increased sperm DNA fragmentation, decreased sperm motility and high levels of dead sperms are associated with wireless internet-connected laptops 5.
So, How can you check your sperm?
Mail it in! Try MaleFromHome.com mail-in sperm check kit
References:
Besides female birth control options, recent advances in Birth Control for Men are making their way through ongoing clinical and research trials [1].
There are many birth control options for men, which are readily available. It depends on your stage of life that you want to consider either temporary/reversible or permanent birth control methods. This article explains both temporary and permanent options for male contraception with their pros and cons.
Condoms are a temporary method for blocking contraception and effective against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like Chlamydia or Herpes. Condoms have been proven to be effective for preventing pregnancy, but human errors reduce their efficacy.
If condoms are not used the right way, the chances of an unintended pregnancy can become high. According to an estimate, 1 in every five women gets pregnant if condoms are not put on properly.
Male birth control pills are a quick method of preventing pregnancy. A pill like DMAU (Dimethandrolone undecanoate) inhibits the formation of sperms and reduces testosterone levels.
However, DMAU is under clinical trials, but it will soon be available once approved by the FDA [4].
Vasectomy is the permanent and successful option for male contraception. Vasectomy involves the cutting or blocking of vas deferens by a surgeon to stop the sperm from reaching semen.
After a vasectomy, semen still produces a small amount of sperm, but they are absorbed by the body. Additionally, vasectomies are also typically less expensive than female sterilization [5].
There is still ongoing research on male birth control methods, such as male hormonal and non-hormonal contraception.
References:
[1] Anderson RA, Baird DT. Male Contraception. Endocr Rev 2002;23:735–62. https://doi.org/10.1210/er.2002-0002.
[2] Manlove J, Ikramullah E, Terry-Humen E. Condom Use and Consistency Among Male Adolescents in the United States. J Adolesc Heal 2008;43:325–33. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2008.03.008.
[3] Everett SA, Warren CW, Santelli JS, Kann L, Collins JL, Kolbe LJ. Use of birth control pills, condoms, and withdrawal among U.S. high school students. J Adolesc Heal 2000;27:112–8. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/S1054-139X(99)00125-1.
[4] Marsiglio W, Menaghan EG. Couples and the male birth control pill: A future alternative in contraceptive selection. J Sex Res 1987;23:34–49. https://doi.org/10.1080/00224498709551340.
[5] Cook LA, Van Vliet H, Lopez LM, Pun A, Gallo MF. Vasectomy occlusion techniques for male sterilization. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD003991.pub3.
While the procedure may look complicated, it’s actually pretty straightforward. It involves cutting and sealing the tubes that carry male sperm. This would prevent sperm from entering the urethra, which then prevents fertilizing female eggs during sexual intercourse.
Besides this, vasectomies are one of the safest and surest options to prevent pregnancy, which is why it’s a more popular choice for men and their partners, especially when searching for permanent solutions.
With that said, you may have wondered, “can a vasectomy fail?” Like all surgical procedures, there are small risks that it may not work. But let’s take a look at this extremely rare occurrence to address any of your doubts on the procedure’s success rate.
An advantage of undergoing vasectomy is that it is very effective and permanent birth control. As for its failure rate, up to 1% of men undergo a vasectomy that fails. Usually, this happens during the first year after the procedure but it can happen later.
As you can see, the failures are rare, but it happens. There are several reasons that may contribute to a failed vasectomy, such as:
What you can do is to make sure that you first use other birth control methods even a few weeks after the procedure, until such time that you’re sure that there are no traces of sperm in your semen. You should also re-check once within a few weeks and again each year.
And of course, it’s best that you go to a medical professional and clinic you trust for your vasectomy procedure. Have your vasectomy in top-rated clinics or hospitals, asking for referrals or doing your research to see who is best based on genuine reviews, the doctor’s experience, and overall reputation. Make sure that he is licensed and is able to do the procedure, communicating with you well if you have any questions.
Wrapping It Up
Hopefully, this article answered your question, “can a vasectomy fail?” While rare, there are a couple of reasons why it happens, and with proper knowledge and action, you can prevent it from happening after the procedure.
Make sure to keep these points in mind and Good luck!
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What should you do during recovery and how long does recovery last? Many men may feel a bit intimidated regarding the recovery process, but it’s actually not as bad as one would think. Read on to find out what happens after the vasectomy!
As mentioned, vasectomy recovery doesn’t take too long. You most likely won’t need to wait for a long time before returning to your daily activities after the procedure.
The full recovery time is between eight to nine days for most men, though this depends on your pain perception and the body's ability to heal tissue.
With that said, it is important note that even once healed it may take longer until you’re able to ejaculate without sperm in the semen so be sure to use other means of contraception until you have had at least 2 negative semen tests. To make this process simple, you can use mail-in tests from your home rather than having to give a sample at your doctor's office. Click here to order a test kit today.
The doctor uses a local anesthetic to numb your scrotum pre-surgery. After the procedure is done, you won't feel anything, as the anesthetic is still in effect.
After the surgery, the doctor will then bandage the scrotum and once the numbness begins to wear off, it may feel tender, uncomfortable, or a bit painful. You may also notice a small amount of bruising and/or swelling as well, and it may feel uncomfortable to urinate. If you have excessive bruising or swelling, definitely call your doctor right away.
You can go home to complete recovery immediately after the surgery, with your doctor recommending someone to drive you home to avoid putting pressure or strain on the surgical site and because you may feel drowsy if you were given medications to sedate or relax you.
During the next week or so, you’re able to recover on your own with the right self-care tips:
With proper rest, you will be able to stop wearing the supportive underwear and take the surgical bandage off after 2-3 days. You can also bathe and shower shortly thereafter, as symptoms should improve quickly and clear up after a week or so. You can resume most daily activities and return to work after a few days, so long as it doesn't require too much moving around or manual labor.
Wrapping It Up
I hope that this article on vasectomy recovery helped inform you of what to expect after the procedure. Vasectomy is low-risk and a relatively safe procedure to have, just make sure that you are well-informed of its effects.
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