**Okanagan Health Surgical No Longer Offers Vasectomies**
Are you considering a vasectomy? Considered as one of the safest and most effective forms of contraception for men, here’s everything you need to know about this surgical procedure.
A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure that is considered to be one of the safest and most effective forms of contraception for men. When performed by a board-certified surgeon, it has many benefits, including:
- Highly reliable method of permanent birth control
- Avoids the risk of pregnancy
- Simple and quick procedure
- Puts you in control of your reproduction
Safe and Quick Vasectomy Procedures at our Kelowna Private Hospital
At our Kelowna private hospital, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons can provide safe vasectomy procedures, as well as vasectomy reversals, for men who are considering this birth control option.
Want to know how we can help?
What is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy, also known as male sterilization, is a form of permanent contraception that involves surgically cutting or blocking two tubes (vas deferens) so that sperm can no longer enter the semen.
Is it effective? Yes! A vasectomy is an extremely effective method of contraception and it’s estimated that only 2 out of 1,000 couples will become pregnant in the first year following the procedure.
How is a vasectomy performed? This procedure is typically performed in an outpatient surgical centre. After the anesthesia has taken effect, the vas deferens will be operated on, one at a time. Small incisions will be made on either side of the scrotum to give your plastic surgeon access to the tubes, which will then be cut out. At least one side will be sealed by suturing.
How long does the procedure take? A vasectomy is a very simple and quick procedure and typically takes 30 minutes.
How long is the recovery period? Most men can return to work after 2-3 days and resume normal physical activity within one week.
Can it be reversed? Although vasectomies are widely thought to be irreversible, the truth is that it’s possible to have a vasectomy reversal. However, the success of the reversal depends highly on:
- The skill and experience of the plastic surgeon
- The age and fertility status of the female partner
- The length of time since the vasectomy
Am I a Good Candidate For a Vasectomy?
Deciding to get a vasectomy is a very serious decision and should always be taken within the help of a qualified plastic surgeon. If you are considering this treatment, it does provide many benefits, including:
- No more concerns about an unplanned pregnancy
- No ongoing costs (eg. purchasing birth control pills or condoms)
- Safer than tubal ligation or pregnancy termination
- Gives you ownership of your reproductive life
You must also note that a vasectomy is not the right choice for everyone and may NOT be suitable for you if:
- You’re considering a vasectomy just to please your partner
- You’re counting on being able to reverse the procedure in the future
- Your current relationship isn’t stable
- You’re very young
**Okanagan Health Surgical No Longer Offers Vasectomies**
