A vasectomy is a minor surgical intervention that aims to block the path of sperm during ejaculation. After a vasectomy, the seminal fluid that is released during ejaculation does not contain sperm. Each year, over 500,000 men worldwide undergo vasectomy for birth control. Sperm and male sex hormones are produced in the testicles. The testicles are located in the scrotum at the base of the penis. Sperm pass through a coiled tube (epididymis), which in turn is connected to the ejaculatory duct by another long tube called the vas deferens. This vessel passes from the lower part of the scrotum into the inguinal canal. Behind the bladder, the vas deferens connects with the seminal vesicle and forms the ejaculatory duct. During ejaculation, seminal fluid from the seminal vesicles mixes with sperm to form sperm. In a conventional vasectomy, one or two small incisions are made in the skin of the scrotum to access the vas deferens. A small piece of it is removed, leaving a short gap between the two ends. These steps are then repeated on the opposite vessel either through the same incision or through a new one. Scrotal incisions can be closed with absorbable sutures or allowed to heal without external intervention. Immediately after surgery, there is a small risk of bleeding in the scrotum. If you notice that your scrotum has become larger or painful, seek medical attention immediately. Another alarming symptom after this procedure is the temperature. It may be an expression of an inflammatory reaction that requires specific treatment. There is a small risk of pain. It occurs in 1 or 2 out of every 100 men. Studies show that men who have had a vasectomy are not at higher risk of other medical conditions such as heart disease, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, or other health problems. After the procedure, you may feel uncomfortable for a few days. To reduce pain, you may be prescribed pain relievers. Severe or excruciating pain most likely indicates the presence of an infection or other health problem requiring medical attention. Some patients develop a benign lump (granuloma) formed by sperm that escape from the cut end of the vas deferens into the scrotal tissue. This formation may be slightly painful or tender to the touch, but it is not life-threatening. After the procedure, most men make a full recovery in less than a week. Many men can return to work the very next day, as long as it is not physically demanding. Sex can often be resumed within a week of a vasectomy, but it is important to note that the procedure does not work instantly. After a vasectomy, new sperm will not be able to enter the seminal fluid, but there will still be sperm in the vas deferens that need to be “cleaned out”. It is necessary to contact your urologist for an analysis of the ejaculate,to check for sperm. You should use other forms of birth control during this time. Will my sense of orgasm change after a vasectomy? Ejaculation and orgasm are not affected by vasectomy. Exceptions are patients in whom a pain syndrome is observed. Can I develop erectile dysfunction after a vasectomy? Vasectomy definitely does not cause erectile dysfunction. Can a vasectomy fail? There is little risk. This happens when sperm flowing from one end of the cut vas deferens find a “way” to the other end of the cut. Can I have children after a vasectomy? Yes, but if you have not stored frozen semen, you will need an additional procedure. The vas deferens can be re-established, but this does not always lead to success.