The man would still be able to orgasm and ejaculate, but with no sperm entering, he won’t be able to impregnate a woman. It is sometimes referred to as male sterilization.
For men who are certain that they do not want to father any child in the future or are done fathering children, Vasectomy is a safe and effective birth control option. The operation is almost 100 per cent effective in preventing pregnancy. It is an outpatient surgery and has a very low risk of complications or side effects. Vasectomies are also less costly than female sterilization (tubal litigation) or the long-term cost of birth control medications for women.
Side Effects of Vasectomy
A major problem with vasectomy is that you could change your mind about fathering children right after surgery. While it is sometimes reversible, it is not guaranteed and the procedure is expensive. You must be certain about not fathering children before deciding on vasectomy.
Here are some possible side effects right after surgery:
- Swelling
- Bruises around the scrotum
- Bleeding inside the scrotum
- Infection
- Mild pain or discomfort
What to do after surgery
Once you’ve returned from the hospital and home, take it easy:
- Do not exert yourself for a whole day. Just rest. In less than a week, you would have fully recovered from the mild pain and discomfort. You would even be able to resume work three days after surgery.
- You might feel sore for a few days. You can ease swelling and pain with an ice pack.
Frequently asked questions about Vasectomy
A lot of men worry that vasectomy could cause serious problems, however, the surgical procedure is safe and complications are very rare. Here are a few frequently asked questions and concerns about vasectomy.
1. Can I have sex ever again?
Yes. But give it a few days after surgery. You should use birth controls until you get tested and sure that your semen is free of sperm.
2. Would a vasectomy affect my sexual performance?
No. A vasectomy won’t affect your sexual drive. It only works to prevent you from fathering children.
3. Would it damage my sexual organs?
It is almost impossible that your penis, testicles, or any other part of your reproductive system will be damaged or injured during the surgery. In very extreme cases, injury to the blood supply could lead to the loss of a testicle, but that is unlikely to happen if the surgeon is a professional.
4. Does a vasectomy protect against STI?
No. A vasectomy only prevents you from fathering children. You would still need condoms to protect against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
5. Would a vasectomy put me at the risk of certain cancers?
No. While there have been concerns about a possible link between vasectomy and testicular or prostate cancer in the past, studies and research haven’t proved it.
6. Can a vasectomy be reversed?
Sometimes. As earlier mentioned, reversing a vasectomy is hard and can’t guarantee that you would be able to father children after it. It is why you must be sure about your decision not to father a child before deciding on getting a vasectomy.
