A vasectomy is a procedure for male birth control. It entails cutting and sealing the tubes that carry the sperm from the testicles to the semen. That means that ejaculations will no longer carry sperm, preventing conception during sexual intercourse. Before you consider undergoing this procedure, however, you’ll want to know how it works, its side effects, and its benefits and disadvantages so you can decide whether it’s right for you. These facts about vasectomies should help clear up any confusion or questions you may have about this contraception method.
How Is it Done?
To perform a vasectomy, the scrotum is accessed and the testicles are felt through the skin. One or two small incisions are made in the skin on either side of one of the tubes connecting to the testicle, called the vas deferens. The vas deferens is identified and clamped to prevent sperm from entering it. It may be cut then sealed, cut and tied off, or cut without any sealing action at all. No stitches are needed as this area heals well without them. After this procedure has been completed on both sides of each tube, an injection of anesthetic is given in order to limit any discomfort due to inflammation in that area.
What Are the Benefits?
Suicide is a male birth control procedure. It entails cutting and sealing the tubes that carry the sperm from the testicles to the semen. That means that ejaculations will no longer carry sperm, preventing conception during sexual intercourse. Vasectomies are considered safe since they have a very low rate of complications as well as long-term consequences. Unlike female contraception, vasectomies are not reversible. Plus, it doesn’t disrupt sex hormone production or any other functions related to fertility and reproductive organs (Hulsey).
Who Can Get it Done?
A vasectomy is a permanent birth control option that any man can take. It doesn’t have any side effects and you’ll be able to return to your normal life in just a few days. Though it may sound scary, there are benefits like never having to worry about STDs again or having more room in your life to explore other areas because of the newfound responsibility. After talking with a doctor, they will recommend the surgery if you believe this is best for you.
For more information, feel free to ask your health care provider or do some research online!
How Much Does it Cost?
It is expensive to get a vasectomy. The average cost ranges from $400 to $1,000, depending on your location and the physician performing the surgery. Insurance may cover this procedure in some cases as an optional male birth control method; it’s worth looking into your individual plan to see if that applies to you. For example, if you’re in school or under 26 years old and your parents have private insurance through their employer, you may be able to use coverage from them – even if you don’t live with them.
Where Should I Go?
There are two procedures available, with a doctor visiting the hospital operating room or in an outpatient clinic. In the former case, surgery is performed under general anesthesia; during outpatient surgery, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the patient’s scrotum. After cutting and sealing off the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the semen, most patients report a painless 10-minute recovery process. You can go home after about two hours and you should be able to return to work in one or two days.
Post-Op Care (after surgery):
Your vasectomy was successful and your surgery is now over. But, now what? Below is a general idea of the post-operative care needed following a vasectomy surgery. In an effort to prevent infection, refrain from heavy lifting or strenuous activity as your body heals. It’s important to allow time for swelling and bruising to go down before engaging in any physical activity. Lastly, be aware that it will take about six weeks for the remaining sperm in your testicles to die off completely before any possibility of pregnancy can occur.
The Future of Birth Control in Men:
The birth control methods available to men are limited and don’t have the same number of options as those offered to women. Vasectomies seem like a viable option as one form of birth control in men and have been increasing in popularity among heterosexual couples in the US over the last few decades. However, there are some myths about vasectomies that need to be corrected before you take the plunge. Talk with your partner, talk with your doctor, and come up with a plan that will work best for both of you so that you can live healthier, happier lives together.
