If one is looking to have permanent birth control, then vasectomy could be the right method for them. But what exactly is vasectomy? It's a minor operation performed for men as a method of birth control. The procedure involves severing or blocking the duct (vas deferens) that transports sperm to the urethra. As a result, sperm won’t get to the semen during ejaculation. Are you considering vasectomy? You are not alone. In America, approximately half a million men opt for vasectomy every year. Why the increased uptake? It's an easy and quick solution for those looking for birth control methods devoid of side effects. Would you want to find out more about vasectomy? Be sure to read on.
Benefits of a Vasectomy
Anyone considering vasectomy should be sure it's the right choice for them. Given that the procedure is intended to be permanent, one should give it a thoughtful consideration before going ahead with it. But if one has made up their mind that they do not intend to have more children, they can go ahead with vasectomy. Below are some other reasons why a vasectomy is beneficial.
- It’s effective - Vasectomy is an incredibly reliable birth control method. There is nearly a zero percent chance of getting a woman pregnant after the process.
- It is safe and quick - While the mention of the word surgery can make one shudder, vasectomy is a low–risk procedure with minimal to zero side effects. Furthermore, the beauty of vasectomy is that it's quick. By the time one is booked for the process, the procedure is over even before you know it.
- It's inexpensive - Compared to tubal ligation for women, vasectomy is less expensive. Considering the cost of raising a child, it's an ideal option. Better yet, it's covered by most insurance.
- It's super convenient - Geta vasectomy and forget it. That's how super convenient the method is. No more trips to the pharmacy for emergency pills. Additionally, after a vasectomy, the numerous trial and error control methods are a thing of the past.
Risks of a Vasectomy
Like any other surgery, vasectomy has some risks. However, these risks or side effects are barely noticeable. The point to note is that anyone with a testicular condition or chronic pain is not ideal for this procedure. The potential short-term risks happen right after surgery. These risks are:
- Infection at the surgery site
- Swelling
- Bleeding inside the scrotum
- Blood in the semen
- Mild discomfort or pain
Delayed complications or long-term risks are rare. However, it's good to have them in mind. They include:
- Chronic pain
- Fluid buildup in the testicle
- Inflammation due to leaking sperm
After surgery, pay close attention to any of the symptoms regardless of the severity. Be sure to talk to your doctor in case of any noticeable symptoms. It also gives you peace of mind after getting reassurance that all is well. When the pain is chronic, or complications persist, most men opt to reverse the procedure. But is the procedure reversible? Let's find out.
Can a Vasectomy be Reversed?
Vasectomy is considered a permanent birth control method. However, what most men do not know is that in many cases, it's reversible. With the dynamics of life, one can consider a reversal. It could be a new marriage or the death of a child. Whatever the reason, reversing a vasectomy isn't mission impossible.
With nearly six to ten percent of men desiring a reversal, how is it done? Well, there are two methods. Vasovasostomy is where the doctor stitches the severed ends of vas deferens. The second method is vasoepididymostomy, where the doctor attaches vas deferens to the organ that holds the sperm (epididymis).
The doctor performs a vasectomy reversal in a clinic or hospital under anesthesia. The procedure may take two to four hours, and the recovery time is about two weeks. It's essential to know one can do a vasectomy reversal a couple of times, but the success rate decreases with each reversal.