Dispelling Vasectomy Myths
Mention the word “vasectomy” to a man and just see how he reacts. This word carries a lot of unwarranted stigma for men. We want to shed some light on some vasectomy facts versus myths to clear up the many misconceptions that exist. It is important to have this discussion because this is a very real men’s health conversation that many would benefit from hearing. A vasectomy is a safe, fast, and affordable medical procedure that blocks sperm from reaching the semen making it a safe birth control solution. In fact, it is safer than any form of birth control other than abstinence. Only 1-2 or about 1,000 women will get pregnant in the following year after their partner gets the procedure. The truth is, a vasectomy is a great option for many men hoping to practice a safe and affordable form of birth control.
Myth #1 A vasectomy will ruin sex. Men seem to have this perception that a vasectomy will kill their sex drive, make sex unpleasurable, or decrease their ability to perform. Reality is, a vasectomy will not lower your labido, it will not affect your ability to get and maintain an erection, and it will not get in the way of a satisfying sexual experience. There is also no reduction in testosterone production. We go into depth about what happens during a vasectomy on this page.
Myth #2 A vasectomy is too painful. While we understand the fear about a medical procedure on such a sensitive body part, a vasectomy is one of the least painful and invasive procedures you can do. In fact, you’ll be able to drive yourself home and be back to light lifting within 1-2 days after some icing and relaxation. A local anesthetic is applied and that is really the only painful part of the procedure. After about 10-30 minutes of some small talk with the urologist, you can be out the door. Although it is an odd sensation, many men report some discomfort not pain. In many experiences, talking with your doctor before,after, and even during the vasectomy relieves the discomfort. Most men report that the anxiety involved was greater than the pain of the procedure.
Myth #3 Recovery takes a long time. While we would not exactly recommend you go run that marathon you’ve been itching for, a vasectomy will not take you out of the game for too long. In most experiences, men will spend 1-2 days resting with ice, a pain prescription from their doctor, and enjoy the couch. After that, expect some general soreness for the next 10-14 days. Although this experience varies from person to person, some will go back to work and light exercise not long after the vasectomy. A return to sexual activity follows a similar timeline. Some general soreness over the next one to two weeks and you are ready to return whenever you are comfortable with it.
Myth #4 A vasectomy is dangerous. This one could not be further from the truth. While no medical procedure exists without some level of risk, a vasectomy is one of the safest ones out there. In terms of birth control, it is safer than using a condom, an iud, or a woman taking birth control medication. As for medical risk, there is a minor risk for bleeding or infection to take place, be sure to carefully monitor your recovery and report quickly to your physician about your worries.
Getting a vasectomy is not an easy decision to make. But for many men, it is a great decision for those who are certain they do not want more children or their partner’s pregnancy could create health complications. Whatever the reason, many men land on this conclusion and have to figure out the best way to plan their family plan for the future. Turns out, a male vasectomy is usually the safest, cheapest, and fastest way to do it. If you’re considering a vasectomy, talk to the team at Asurology. Our patients have enjoyed our personal approach to ensure every concern and question are answered to satisfaction.
