Regardless of your reason for using contraception, the fact remains that as a man, your choices are limited. While women are able to choose from shots, pills, implants, and other birth control methods, men have only one permanent option and one temporary one to choose from.
So, just what options are currently available for men who choose to prevent pregnancy?
· Condoms
A great way to not only protect against unwanted pregnancies, condoms are prophylactics, which are used to protect against sexually transmitted diseases. They are a good choice for men who want a temporary birth control solution.
Condoms are also a very effective form of birth control as they are about 98% effective. However, many men (and their partners for that matter) do not enjoy sex in the same way with a condom. It can dull the sensation and decrease pleasure for one or both partners. They can also be drying, making them uncomfortable. For some, condoms aren’t even an option as some people are allergic to the latex. And who wants to run to the store when the moment strikes but you don’t have any condoms on hand? Spontaneity is often reduced with this temporary method.
· Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tubes (vas deferns) that allow sperm to exit the body are cut or blocked. Dr. Desi Avila has helped many men enjoy sex – without fear of conception – with a vasectomy.
There is no external change to the penis or in sexual pleasure after a vasectomy. Though they are permanent, vasectomies are reversible if you decide at a later time that you would like to have children.
The only drawback most men associate with a vasectomy is that another form of birth control must be used until the post-operative appointments to verify sperm counts have been reduced to zero are complete. For a permanent solution however, this is just a minor inconvenience.
Any other options?
A new method of birth control is currently being studied with hopes of it being available with two years. Based on animal trials, Vasalgel injections are very effective and work quickly to prevent pregnancy. Working similarly to a vasectomy, the injection blocks the vas deferens, so sperm doesn’t end up in seminal fluids. Until approved for use in humans (and perhaps even afterwards), the best option for condom-free male birth control is a vasectomy.
Interested in a vasectomy as a birth control method? When performed by an experienced surgeon, a vasectomy is nearly 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Dr. Avila is a skilled, fellowship-trained urologist who can help you take birth control into your own hands with a no-scalpel, no-needle vasectomy.
Request an appointment online with Dr. Avila, or call one of our offices in Phoenix or Gilbert today at (866) 889-5339.
