Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the more frequently asked questions, which will be a good place to start. If your particular question isn’t answered here please contact us.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
The visit to the VASMAN takes only 1 hour (including the procedure and pre- and post-vas discussion and consent).
CAN I DRIVE HOME?
Patients can drive to and from the clinic by themselves but wives/partners are welcome to attend and even watch if they want to.
DOES IT HURT?
The vasectomy procedure uses local anaesthetic – approximately 5mL – about the same amount used when getting a filling at the dentist – and the sting of the anaesthetic going into the skin lasts about 2 seconds. (Compare this to delivering a baby!)
HOW BIG IS THE CUT?
Both of the vas deferens (the bits that get ‘snipped’) are operated on through one small incision – about half a centimeter (0.5cm) long. The incision is so small there is no need for any stitches after the procedure.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS IT?
A vasectomy is 10 times more effective than any other form of contraception other than abstinence. It is absolutely the contraceptive method of choice when your family is complete.
IS THERE ANY ASSOCIATION WITH PROSTATE CANCER?
There is no known correlation with prostate cancer (see J Fam Pract. 2002 Sep;51(9):791. “Vasectomy does not increase the risk of prostate cancer, even after 25 years or more”.
HOW RELIABLE IS IT?
In a recent British study (The Lancet Vol 356 July 1, 2000) “How reliable is a vasectomy? Long-term follow-up of vasectomised men” by N Halder et al they concluded, “Our study confirms that vasectomy is an extremely reliable form of contraception”.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The cost of the vasectomy includes the vasectomist, a theatre nurse, materials, and theatre costs. A total cost of $495.00 + GST.
WHERE IS THE OPERATION PERFORMED?
Most vasectomies in Auckland by the VASMAN are performed at:
Specialist Suites
Level 2
Quay Park Health
68 Beach Road
AUCKLAND CITY
HOW LONG BEFORE I CAN ABANDON OTHER METHODS OF CONTRACEPTION?
The British Obstetric and Gynaecological society suggest 16-18 weeks but most men have clear samples by approximately 12 weeks. Two consecutive negative samples are required.