Is Vasectomy Right For You?
Vasectomy is a simple, safe procedure that makes a man sterile (unable to father a child). It’s the most effective birth control method for men. There are many good reasons to choose vasectomy. But it is a major step. You and your partner should know all the facts and share in the decision.
What Is A Vasectomy?
A Vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure to cut and close off the tubes ( vas deferens) that deliver sperm from the testes. It is usually performed as a means of contraception.
Vasectomy is considered a permanent method of birth control. The vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure that prevents sperm from mixing with the semen that is ejaculated from the penis. Sperm are made in the testicles, pass through two tiny tubes called the vas deferens, and mix with seminal fluids to form semen. The vasectomy procedure blocks each vas deferens and prevents sperm from mixing with the seminal fluid. The vasectomy procedure involves separating and sealing the two vas deferens tubes that transfers sperm from the testicles to the seminal fluid. While there are many methods used to perform this procedure, Advanced Urology uses a No Scalpel method. After the procedure is complete, ejaculations will proceed as normal but your semen will not contain any sperm. Ejaculation during sexual intercourse will continue to look and feel the same as prior to the procedure, but you will no longer be able to impregnate your partner. Besides tubal ligation (female sterilization) and oral contraceptives (birth control pills), the vasectomy is the most common form of birth control among American married couples. About 50 million men worldwide have had a vasectomy and approximately 500,000 men in the United States undergo the procedure each year.
Is Vasectomy the Right Form of Birth Control for You and Your Partner?
Benefits: Vasectomy procedures do not affect sexual function. They are performed quickly (15-30 minutes) and are much less invasive than a tubal ligation (i.e., the procedure used to prevent a woman’s eggs from reaching the uterus). They are also easily reversed. Learn more about Vasectomy Reversals.
Why Men SHOULD Consider a Vasectomy
- No stress or worry about pregnancy when having intercourse
- No risk of a pregnancy that may be dangerous or not recommended for your partner/spouse
- No risk of passing on a genetically inherited hereditary disease or disability
- All other forms of birth control are not an option
- No surgery for your spouse or partner to have her tubes tied (tubal ligation)
Why Men Should NOT Consider a Vasectomy
- You are young and may consider have children one day
- You are being pressured by your spouse or partner
- You are in an unstable relationship or not married
- You are depressed, stressed, or have difficulty making important life decisions
- You are planning to change your mind and reverse it later
Reversing a vasectomy can be complex and success can be variable, so make absolutely sure that you have considered all of these options.
