Vasectomy

Frequently Asked Questions

We want you to feel as comfortable and confident in your decision as possible.

Dr. Matson takes time to get to know his patients, hear their wants and concerns, answer their questions, and put their minds at ease. And then he delivers the best possible care.

Some guys want to know all the details. Others just want the basic information and not to think about it too much. No matter which kind of person you are, Dr. Matson will give you the information required to make a sound decision and recover well.

Below are some of the questions that come up most frequently. If you have additional questions, Dr. Matson will be happy to discuss them during your visit.

How does a vasectomy work? 

A vasectomy blocks the tubes (vas deferens) that carry the sperm from the testicle to the seminal or ejaculate fluid. You can read an overview of the procedure here.

What is No-Needle anesthesia? 

“No-Needle” anesthesia is a new method for applying local anesthetic with a spray instead of a needle—a very welcomed improvement. After preparing the scrotal area with antiseptic, a device is used to numb the skin and vas deferens with several quick bursts of spray. The result is rapid, comfortable and effective. Following the anesthetic, most men feel very little. Dr. Matson was an early adopter of this device and has been using it since 2006.

What is No-Scalpel vasectomy? 
“No-Scalpel” vasectomy is a surgical method by which specialized instruments (instead of a scalpel) are used in trained hands to produce a small, single mid-line opening to access the vas deferens. The procedure takes about 15 minutes and doesn’t even require stitches. This minimally invasive technique is a major improvement over the “conventional” vasectomy as it produces far less tissue disruption. Less tissue disruption means less potential for bleeding and swelling, and a faster recovery with minimal discomfort.
Who should have a vasectomy? 

Any man who is convinced he’s done having kids—or is truly positive he doesn’t ever want children.

Are there any changes to my sexuality after a vasectomy? 

No. Libido (desire for sex), hormone levels and erection are unchanged. The amount of fluid with ejaculation is reduced by about 1% and will contain no sperm, but is not noticeably different.

Does it hurt? 

The No-Needle technique used by Dr. Matson produces rapid and comfortable anesthesia, and most men (like these guys) are surprised by how easy the procedure is.

What should I do in preparation for a vasectomy? 

1. Prepare for your appointment by arranging your schedule to accommodate two days of rest followed by 5-7 days of light activity after your vasectomy.

2. Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve), or fish oil for 7 days prior to the appointment. If minor pain medicine is needed please use acetaminophen (Tylenol).

3. Trim the hair above the penis with a pair of scissors and shave the front of the testicle area (scrotum) below the penis several days prior to your appointment (antiseptic may sting when applied to freshly shaven skin).

4. Wash the groin, thighs and scrotum (skin over the genitals) with Hibiclens soap available at drug stores (over the counter in the first aid isle) the night before and the morning of your surgery. Although not approved by the FDA for use on the genitals, it is commonly used this way, and recent studies have shown a significant decrease in infections in genitourinary surgery.

5. Wear a clean jock strap or sport compression shorts to the appointment.

6. Arrive to the appointment warm (wear long pants, use heat in the car) as cool conditions can make the surgery more difficult to perform.

How long is the recovery? 

Following your vasectomy, you should rest for 2-3 days with your feet up. (Yes, we can write a “prescription” for video games and Netflix.) You should then limit yourself to light activities for another 5-7 days.

Does it work right away? 

NO! It is safe to resume sex after one week, but you must continue birth control for 8-16 weeks until a semen analysis shows no sperm. Half of vasectomy failures (unintended pregnancies) occur in the first three months after the procedure--so seriously, continue to use birth control until we give you the all clear!

Can a vasectomy be reversed? 

Not always. Vasectomy reversal is expensive and not always successful. You should only get a vasectomy if you’re certain you don’t want (any more) children.

Are there any drawbacks to getting a vasectomy? 

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure with low risks. That said, it is not easy to reverse if you change your mind, and it does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.

Let’s start the conversation. Schedule an appointment today.

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Our Promise:

The Vasectomy and Male Infertility Center of Connecticut is a practice devoted to male reproductive needs. Whether you are considering a vasectomy or want a vasectomy reversal, Dr. Scott Matson and his team will treat you as a person, not a time slot. Your comfort, confidence and efficient care are our top priorities.

Scott Matson MD is Certified by the American Board of Urology.

To provide our patients with the highest level of protection and care we have adjusted our consultation and procedure process, including the implementation of Telemedicine and COVID-specific policies. Learn More

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