Around half a million men in the U.S. receive a vasectomy every year. It’s the fourth most common form of birth control. In fact, vasectomies have more benefits than female-centric birth control options. Even still, many men have reservations due to misconceptions. Is the procedure safe? Will there be any side effects? We’ve got the answers.
At Urological Associates in Charlottesville, Virginia, our urological team will discuss vasectomies with you and dispel your fears. We want you to be able to make a fully informed decision about whether to have a vasectomy and how it can benefit you and your family.
A vasectomy is a simple medical procedure. It blocks the sperm's path from the testes to the urethra, where it mixes with semen during ejaculation. The sperm travels through two tiny tubes called the vas deferens.
During a vasectomy, the vas deferens on each side are accessed through a tiny incision or puncture, that’s severed, and sealed off with a stitch or a laser. The surgery only takes a few minutes and recovery is quick.
After about three months, most men are completely sterile. The best part? If you decide to have kids at a later date, you can always get a vasectomy reversal.
Many men hesitate to get a vasectomy due to misconceptions about the procedure, or worries they'll feel “less like a man” afterward. Don't let these myths stop you from learning more about vasectomies and their benefits. Here are five of the main reasons you should consider this procedure:
A tubal ligation, which closes off the egg’s path to the uterus, is major surgery for women. In contrast, a vasectomy is fast, easy, and can be completed through the tiniest of access holes or incisions. Any discomfort can typically be relieved with a cold pack and some over the counter pain medication.
A vasectomy is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. That’s a better track record than condoms (which are theoretically 98% effective if used properly). Vasectomies are also more effective than most forms of female birth control, including female condoms, the pill, and contraceptive gel or foam.
Compared to female sterilization, or the cost of other contraceptive methods over a lifetime, a vasectomy can be the most cost-effective birth control option available. You’ll be able to prevent unwanted conception in an almost foolproof manner.
Most men feel fully recovered in a little over a week. A vasectomy doesn’t interfere with libido, the ability to achieve an erection, or sexual satisfaction.
Are you in a committed relationship with a partner? Are you uninterested in having children right now? A vasectomy can help prevent any accidents. Instead, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy sex without worrying about impregnating your partner. With that said, you’ll still need to practice safe sex to prevent STDs.
After your vasectomy, you’ll need to use some form of birth control for at least three to six months or until a semen test comes back negative for sperm, whichever comes first. Once no sperm is detectable, you will be declared officially sterile.
Do you want to learn more about vasectomies? Contact our office at 434-201-2182 or book an appointment online today.
