Whether you have decided that you never want to have children or you already have a family and don’t want to have any more children, a vasectomy may be right for you. Still, even if you know that a vasectomy is something you want, it’s normal to have some anxiety or even feel scared about the procedure.
However, you should know that vasectomies are a safe, minimally invasive procedure and one of the most reliable forms of permanent birth control. If you have any fears or if anything is holding you back, we are here to provide you with everything you need to know to make a more informed decision.
What is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is considered a form of male birth control that works by cutting off the supply of sperm to your semen. It is done by cutting and sealing the vas deferens (tubes that carry sperm). The testes will still produce sperm, but as the sperm have nowhere to go, they will die and be absorbed by the body.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, more than half a million vasectomies are performed each year, making this a common procedure. While all procedures come with risks, vasectomies are considered a safe and effective procedure.
Only about 1% to 2% of those who have the procedure will experience complications such as ongoing pain or discomfort, but this is easily treated with anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen. Additionally, only around 1 out of 2,000 people will get pregnant after their partners have had a vasectomy.
What to Expect After a Vasectomy
After the procedure, you can expect the scrotum to be numb for a few hours. Mild discomfort, pain, and swelling are also normal but should clear up within a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication and cold packs are often used to ease discomfort.
You will also be advised to limit activity after surgery for at least 24 hours. After that, you can do light activities for about two to three days. Moderate to heavy activity like sports, lifting, and heavy work should be avoided for about a week. You should also avoid sex for a week as you could feel pain and notice blood in your semen if you ejaculate.
It’s also important to note that it can take three to four months or about 20 ejaculations for the leftover sperm to be cleared from your tubes. As such, it is advised that an alternative form of birth control is used for a short period after the procedure.
Four Vasectomy Myths Debunked
Despite plenty of evidence that supports the safety and effectiveness of vasectomies, it is not uncommon for misinformation to spread. If you are feeling anxious or nervous about having a vasectomy, this is normal, but you must have the right information so you can feel better about your decision.
Myth #1: Sexual Performance and Pleasure Will Be Affected
A vasectomy will NOT affect your sex drive, libido, or your testosterone levels. The nerves in the penis are also not impacted by a vasectomy, which means your ability to feel sensations or pleasure will not be affected. If anything, many who have the procedure report higher sexual satisfaction after a vasectomy due to fewer concerns about getting their partner pregnant.
Myth #2: A Vasectomy Will Permanently Damage Sex Organs and Cause Erectile Dysfunction
The procedure focuses on the vas deferens, which means any other sexual organ or tissue should not be affected. Additionally, erections are the result of blood flow to the penis, and a vasectomy should not affect the blood supply to the penis. It is only in extremely rare cases that injury to blood supply can occur, which could result in the loss of a testicle, but there is a very low risk of this occurring if you work with an experienced and skilled physician.
Myth #3: Vasectomies Increase Risk of Prostate Cancer
There has been no link made between vasectomies and prostate cancer. These are unfound concerns. The primary risks associated with the procedure are pain, bleeding, and infection, but these are considered rare.
Myth #4: A Vasectomy Will Cause Severe Pain
As mentioned already, it is normal to experience minor pain and swelling after a vasectomy. However, severe pain is extremely rare and only occurs if there is a complication. In the majority of cases, pain is minimal and easily managed with medications like ibuprofen, and it goes away after a few days.
Don’t Be Anxious. Speak With an Expert at Norman Urology Associates Today!
If you are considering a vasectomy but still have some questions and concerns, you should not hesitate to reach out to a doctor. It is perfectly normal to feel anxious, but an experienced physician should be able to answer any and all questions to alleviate your concerns.
At Norman Urology Associates, our urologists are dedicated to providing the highest level of care. Visit us online or call us at 405-360-9966 for more information or to set up an appointment to speak with a urologist about your vasectomy.