If you and your partner are looking for permanent birth control methods, you might be considering a vasectomy. The surgical procedure, which is done on men, is highly effective in preventing pregnancies.
However, before going ahead with it, you should learn about the procedure and the possible vasectomy side effects. You might already be wondering what it entails and whether you can ever reverse this form of contraception. This article walks you through everything you need to know about vasectomies.
1. Vasectomy is an In-Office Procedure
A vasectomy is typically an in-office and simple procedure that would take no longer than twenty minutes. If necessary, it can be done under general anesthesia; otherwise, the doctor will simply use a numbing agent. They will make two incisions to pull out, sever, and seal the two tubes that carry sperm to the urethra.
2. Prepare Yourself for Healing
Vasectomies are not as painful, but you will likely experience slight discomfort for at least a week. This is why you must not carry out any rigorous physical activity for at least a week. Additionally, you must also take a few days off from work to rest and recover.
3. They Are Not Immediately Effective
It should be noted that vasectomies take about two months in order to be effective because the semen needs to be cleared out. This is why you should still use birth control methods during this time to prevent pregnancy.
4. You Will Still Be Able to Enjoy Sex
Many men fear that they will not be able to enjoy sex, have an orgasm, or ejaculate after they have gotten a vasectomy. However, this is not true at all. Your orgasm will remain the same, and there will be no change in the fluids when you ejaculate. The only difference is that the sperm count in the fluid will be significantly less.
5. Vasectomies Can Be Reversed
Before getting a vasectomy, you should be sure that you don\’t want any children. While vasectomies can be reversed, the procedure for reversal is often complicated. Not only are they more expensive, but their success rates also decline over time. Even the procedure is much longer itself and requires you to stay under anesthesia for a long time. Lastly, another issue is that no insurance company typically covers the high costs of vasectomy reversals.
6. You Should Finish Family Planning Before Getting a Vasectomy
If you are still considering or thinking about having children in the future, avoid getting a vasectomy. You should consider other birth control methods or get some of your sperm extracted and frozen for future use. However, doing so can be complicated and expensive. Since the reversal of vasectomies is also complicated, you should think long and hard and finish your family planning with your partner before getting it done.
Final Words
It is always good to get in touch with your primary care physician or urologist and discuss any of your fears and concerns regarding this procedure. There is tons of misinformation around vasectomies, so be sure to do your research.
At irvingprimarycare.com, we can provide you with the guidance you need. To make an appointment with a healthcare provider at irvingprimarycare.com, visit https://www.healthonemedicine.com/or call (469)262-5762.