Vasectomy is a surgical procedure used as permanent birth control in men. During the procedure, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra are cut, tied, or closed, preventing sperm from being released during ejaculation. It is a safe and effective birth control method with a success rate of over 99%. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and can be performed in the doctor’s office or clinic. Recovery time is usually minimal and sexual activity can usually be resumed within a week or two.
How effective is vasectomy?
Vasectomy is one of the most effective birth control methods available to men. The failure rate of the procedure is less than 1%. This means that for every 1,000 couples who rely on vasectomy for birth control, they may only get pregnant once or twice in the first year after the procedure. Compared to other birth control methods such as condoms or birth control pills, vasectomy is more reliable at preventing unwanted pregnancies.
It is important to note that vasectomy does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, it is recommended that men continue to use condoms or other methods of protection during sexual activity to reduce the risk of STI transmission. Vasectomy is a permanent method of birth control, so it should be considered by men who do not want to have children in the future. Men who are unsure about their future family planning goals should consider other temporary birth control methods, such as condoms or temporary sterilization.
Is vasectomy reversible?
Although vasectomy is a permanent birth control method, it is sometimes possible to reverse the procedure through surgery. Vasectomy reversal reattaches the end of the severed vas deferens, allowing sperm to flow again. The success of the procedure depends on several factors, such as the time at which the initial vasectomy was performed and the technique used. In general, the success rate decreases with longer time between vasectomy and reversal. Additionally, if scar tissue has formed in the area where the first vasectomy was performed, the success rate of reversal decreases.
It is important for men to carefully consider their future family planning goals before deciding on a vasectomy. Although recycling is possible in some cases, it is not a guaranteed way to restore fertility. Men who are unsure about their future family planning goals may consider other temporary birth control methods, such as condoms or temporary sterilization. Ultimately, deciding on a vasectomy should be made by considering all possible outcomes and in consultation with a healthcare professional.
What are the possible risks and side effects of vasectomy?
Like any surgical procedure, vasectomy involves potential risks and side effects. Although complications are rare, some men may experience problems such as pain, swelling, or infection in the cut area. In rare cases, the vas deferens may fuse and the procedure may fail. Additionally, some men may experience long-term pain or discomfort in the testicles after the procedure. This condition is known as post-vasectomy pain syndrome and occurs in only 1-2% of men who undergo the procedure. Therefore, it is important for men to discuss potential risks and side effects with their healthcare provider before proceeding with the procedure.
What should men expect during and after the vasectomy procedure?
Vasectomy is a relatively simple procedure that can be performed in the doctor’s office or clinic. Before the procedure, the patient is given local anesthesia to numb the area around the scrotum. The doctor then makes one or two small incisions in the scrotum to access the vas deferens. The vas deferens is cut, ligated, or closed, preventing the release of sperm during ejaculation. The vasectomy procedure can usually take between 30 minutes and an hour.
After the procedure, men may experience some discomfort, such as mild pain or swelling in the scrotum, but these symptoms are usually mild and can be managed with pain medications and ice packs. After vasectomy, you should rest for a few days and avoid heavy lifting. Within a week or two after the procedure, most men can return to work and resume sexual activity. Vasectomy does not provide immediate birth control, and men should continue to use alternative birth control methods after their healthcare provider confirms their sperm is free.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/vasectomy/about/pac-20384580
https://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-overview/
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/vasectomy/conditioninfo/effective
Prof. Dr. Gökhan Koç graduated from Gazi University Faculty of Medicine in 2000. After his graduation, he worked as a research assistant in the urology clinic at Tepecik Training and Research Hospital for 5 years and became a specialist doctor in 2007. He currently provides services in urological surgery in İzmir.