A growing number of men in America – more than half a million annually – are electing to undergo a vasectomy. This is a sterilization procedure in which a urological surgeon removes a segment of the vas deferens, a tube in the testis that transports mature sperm cells to the urethra in preparation for ejaculation.
Not only is a vasectomy the most effective form of contraception for men, but it is also a safer alternative than having female partners consider hormonal birth control, which comes with an increased risk of blood clots. Not to mention the fact that a vasectomy allows a man to have spontaneous and pleasurable intercourse – without the use of desensitizing condoms, which may or may not prevent pregnancy.
Nevertheless, as with any other major decision, there are things you want to know about vasectomy beforehand. Below are some of them:
#1 Vasectomies Are Almost 100% Effective
They are far more effective than nonsurgical birth control options, such as condoms or pills. That’s because once it’s done, sperm can no longer travel from the testis to the penis to be ejaculated.
#2 The Procedure Is Quick and Safe
The whole procedure only takes about 20 minutes. Minor side effects include temporary swelling, bruising of the scrotum, or discomfort.
#3 Recovery from a Vasectomy Is Swift
Recovery typically lasts just a few days, during which you can apply ice to the incision to minimize any swelling you might be experiencing. After that, you can return to your normal activities, unless your job is physically demanding. In such a case, you should take a week off. You should also refrain from sex and vigorous exercise until your urologist gives you a go-ahead.
#4 It Can Take Up to Three Months for Vasectomy to Fully Take Effect
This is because it takes a number of ejaculations to expel all of the sperm that are downstream of where the vas deferens is divided. In the interim, you will need to keep using birth control until you achieve a sperm count of zero.
#5 A Vasectomy Won’t Affect Your Sexual Experience or Performance
You’ll still feel the same sensation, achieve a full erection, and ejaculate as you used to. The only thing that will be eliminated is the sperm cells needed for conception.
#6 Vasectomy Is Reversible
While vasectomy is a permanent method of contraception, the circumstances that lead to the consideration of it can change. Approximately 6 percent of men who have had vasectomies worldwide opt for reversals.
However, it is important to take note that the success of a reversal depends on a number of factors, such as how long it has been since you’ve had the procedure.
#7 Vasectomy Is a Well-Tolerated Procedure
The procedure can be carried out either under local anesthesia or conscious sedation (aka “twilight anesthesia”). If your urologist does the surgery under local anesthesia, they will administer it directly to your scrotum to numb the area. Whichever option you prefer, you will stay awake throughout the procedure.
Urological Surgeon in Mesa, Arizona
At Ironwood Urology, Dr. Desiderio Avila, Jr.– our board-certified urological surgeon – has earned a reputation as the leading expert in no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy in the Mesa and Phoenix, Arizona areas. This stems from not only his skills and extensive experience but also his dedication to consistently ensuring unparalleled patient outcomes
To find out whether you’re a candidate for vasectomy, book your consultation with Dr. Avila today. Call our staff at (480) 961-2323, or request an appointment right here on our website.
