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What Is a Vasectomy?

When looking for permanent sterilization, first ask: What is a vasectomy?

Some men know they never want to have children, while others are looking for ultra-reliable birth control because they feel their families are complete. Either way, for men considering permanent sterilization, the first question to ask is, what is a vasectomy? Our skilled vasectomy surgeons in Austin are happy to provide you with all the information you need to feel comfortable with your decision.

A vasectomy is a highly effective, well-tolerated surgical procedure that offers permanent sterilization in men. The procedure, which takes a total of 20 to 30 minutes, is performed in our Austin urologists’ offices under sedation or local anesthesia.

A vasectomy is simply cutting and sealing a small section of the tubes, called the vas deferens, that carry the sperm. Blocking the tubes prevents the sperm from reaching the semen. Without the sperm, the semen cannot cause a pregnancy.

When you come to our trusted vasectomy surgeons in Austin, you can count on an effective procedure that minimizes discomfort and potential complications. Our urological surgeons use minimally invasive techniques that minimize the risk of complications and shorten recovery time.

  • We make a single incision on the scrotum, which is closed with a single dissolvable stitch, so your recovery is faster and more comfortable.
  • Using a no-scalpel technique internally on the vas deferens reduces recovery time and discomfort.
  • All stitches are dissolvable. We do not use metal clips to block the tubes.
  • To minimize complications, we tie only one end of the vas deferens.

Common misconceptions about vasectomy

If your friends are trying to scare you away from the procedure, arm yourself with the facts. A vasectomy is not like castration or similar to being neutered. When you’re asking questions like what is a vasectomy, it’s comforting to learn that the procedure is safe and has a very low risk of complications.

In fact, after a vasectomy, there will be no apparent differences, either in appearance or performance. A vasectomy does not change a man’s testosterone production, which means there is no change to sexual desire, erection, volume of ejaculate, or risk of prostate cancer.

Most insurance plans cover the cost of a vasectomy. Those without coverage will receive a competitive cash price.
Compared to the cost of female sterilization, the price of this form of permanent sterilization is considerably lower. Also, the procedure is far less invasive than the surgical options available to women.

What is a vasectomy like? We have the answers

Every NAU Urology Specialists patient will have a vasectomy pre-procedure consultation with their Austin urology provider. This offers an opportunity for patients to ask questions such as, what is a vasectomy like at NAU Urology Specialists? Men will also be able to get answers to questions about sedation and all other aspects of the vasectomy prior to the procedure.

For more information about permanent sterilization for men, or to schedule a pre-procedure consultation, please contact our vasectomy surgeons in Austin.