A vasectomy is a minor surgical operation with the aim of male sterilization by disconnecting the spermatic cords (vas deferens) that conduct sperm from the testes to the penis. Although general anesthesia is not required, a local anesthetic will be injected into the scrotal area. Things to consider:

1. Generally, a vasectomy is an irreversible procedure. Although a reversal procedure exists, a patient considering a vasectomy should accept in advance that his sterilization is permanent.

2. A small percentage of men will have reunion of the two cut ends of the vas deferens. A positive sperm sample would confirm this. Thus, two sperm samples are collected and assessed in the 1st and 2nd months post-op. A third sample may be taken twelve months post-op.

Want to learn more about the procedure, expectations, and risks? 

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