A narrow tube, called the vas deferens, connects each testicle in the scrotum to the urethra.
During ejaculation, sperm moves up from the testicles and mixes with other fluid from the seminal vesicles and prostate to make semen.
From there, the semen moves through the tubes and into the urethra, where it leaves the body through the penis.
A vasectomy is surgery to close the tubes that carry sperm so that sperm is not released during ejaculation.
The surgery is done as a permanent method of birth control.
A vasectomy won't change your sex drive or ability to have erections.
And your ability to orgasm and ejaculate will stay the same.
A vasectomy is often done in a clinic but also can be done in a hospital as an outpatient procedure.
First, the area will be cleaned with soap. It may also be shaved.
And you may get medicine to help you relax.
Then you'll get a shot or other medicine to numb the scrotum.
The doctor will make one or two small cuts, called incisions, in the scrotum.
Then the doctor will cut, seal, or tie each tube.
The small cuts in the skin may be left to heal on their own, or they may be closed with glue, tape, or stitches.
It depends on how the surgery was done.
You should be able to go home just after surgery.
Before the surgery, tell your doctor about all the medicines and natural health products you take, especially blood thinners, including aspirin.
Some of these can increase the risk of bleeding or cause other problems.
Your doctor will tell you which medicines to take or stop before your surgery.
Bring your photo ID, insurance card, and any paperwork that your clinic or doctor's office may have asked for.
If you were given any medicine to help you relax, it will be unsafe for you to drive.
Be sure to have someone help you get home.
Be sure to have someone help you get home.
Your doctor will give you instructions for how to care for yourself after surgery, so you can heal and get better as soon as possible.
And if you have any questions, you can always call your doctor.
