Is Essure also an alternative to vasectomy for a couple?
Yes. Vasectomy is a surgical operation with associated risks. A vasectomy requires that the man’s scrotum is cut or punctured, the vas deferens cut, and the ends of the vas deferens are either burned or clipped closed. A vasectomy takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and recovery is usually about 2 days. The man may also need to apply ice packs to the scrotum and wear an athletic supporter for several days to prevent swelling and bruising. The couple must use an alternative form of birth control, typically for 3 months or until a sperm count test demonstrates that the vasectomy was successful. A 6 month sperm test is recommended.
