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Vasectomy in the Central Coast of California

A vasectomy is a form of birth control during which the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm, are cut. When the tube is cut, there is no way for sperm to be released from the penis. This procedure is considered a permanent form of birth control.

If you’re considering a vasectomy in the central coast of California, contact the Urology Associates of the Central Coast today to schedule a consultation. Our board-certified urologists have extensive experience performing safe and effective vasectomies. Give us a call to schedule an appointment in San Luis Obispo, Templeton, Pismo Beach, Santa Maria, or Lompoc.

Benefits of a Vasectomy

It is recommended that men only get a vasectomy when they are certain that they no longer wish to have children. It is the preferred choice for many couples because:

  • The use of male birth control (condoms) or female birth control (pills, IUDs, etc.) is no longer needed.
  • The procedure is almost 100 percent certain to prevent pregnancy.
  • The procedure is performed in office under local anesthesia 
  • The procedure typically takes about 30-minutes.
  • It is much less expensive than female sterilization.

Vasectomy Procedure

In most cases, a vasectomy will be performed in-office and is considered an outpatient procedure. Full-anesthesia is not required, only a local anesthetic is necessary. Patients can request a sediative for the procedure. Patients will need a driver if a sediative is administered.

No-Scalpel Vasectomy

A no-scalpel vasectomy does not use incisions, rather, the surgeon is able to access the vas deferens through very small holes. The surgeon will remove a small section of the vas deferens. The tubes are tied or clamped, and cauterized so that they are closed and can no longer transport sperm. No stitches are needed for this form of procedure.

Benefits of a No-Scalpel Vasectomy

Any type of vasectomy presents a number of advantages to each potential patient. Men who are looking to avoid future children in a way that is safe, effective, and affordable are often considered primary candidates for this kind of procedure.

Aside from the regular benefits of a vasectomy, the no-scalpel procedure also allows for:

  • Shorter recovery time
  • Reduced risk of complications such as infection or bleeding
  • The ability to resume sexual activities much sooner
  • No scarring
  • The ability to perform the procedure from one of our convenient urology clinic locations

Recovery After the Procedure

Immediately following a vasectomy, there will be bruising and swelling, but those symptoms should subside after a few days. Apply ice packs every few hours to help control these symptoms. Wear tight-fitting underwear so that the scrotum is provided extra support. 

Get plenty of bed rest during the first week. At the very least, stay off of your feet for two or three days. Avoid bathing for about 48 hours because this will allow the incisions to heal faster and prevent infection. 

Most patients are able to return to their normal lives after one week. 

Sex After a Vasectomy

Wait at least one week before having protected sexual intercourse. Keep in mind, you may not be sterile right away. Ejaculate may still contain sperm and may continue to for several months after the procedure. Eight to twelve weeks after your procedure, the doctor will check sperm levels to confirm that it is declining until it reaches zero. 

The vasectomy will not affect your sex drive and orgasms. Occasionally, men feel a slight pressure in their testicles when aroused, but eventually, that feeling will go away. 

Schedule a Vasectomy Consultation

If you would like to talk to a urologist about a vasectomy, contact the Urology Associates of the Central Coast today to schedule a consultation. We have urology clinics in San Luis Obispo, Templeton, Pismo Beach, Santa Maria, and Lompoc.