A vasectomy is a safe and effective method of permanent male birth control, as it is almost 100% effective. Thanks to advances in medicine, the procedure can be carried out even more quickly and easily than ever before – and right in the comfort of your urologist’s office. The procedure also has a low risk of complications or side effects, and it costs much less than female sterilization.
This type of male contraception does not affect your sex drive or your ability to enjoy sex, thereby making it a preferred option for men who are certain they do not wish to father a child in the future. A vasectomy works by cutting or clamping the tubes that carry sperm, known as the vas deferens. This is done to prevent sperm from traveling through the tubes and mixing with semen during ejaculation.
However, if you are considering having a vasectomy, there are some things you should keep in mind. Let’s talk about some of the main factors involved, and where you can go here in the Phoenix area to see a men’s health specialist.
Mistakes Following a Vasectomy
There are some important things to keep in mind when having a vasectomy, including the following:
Unplanned Pregnancy
A vasectomy doesn’t provide immediate protection against pregnancy, so you could still conceive a child while you’re healing. Another form of contraception should be used until your doctor confirms that there are no sperm in your semen.
The amount of time it takes for this to happen can vary from man to man, but it can take several months or longer.
A simple post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA) test is usually carried out 6-12 weeks after the surgery to confirm that no sperm are present. At least 2 semen tests are recommended. Once the tests have confirmed that your semen is sperm-free, it allows you to resume sexual activity without the worry of an unplanned pregnancy.
Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)
Although a vasectomy is a highly effective form of birth control, it will not protect you or your partner from sharing a sexually transmitted disease – such as chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, or HIV/AIDS. You should use other forms of protection, such as a condom, if you might be vulnerable to an STD.
A Change in Circumstances or You Change Your Mind
A vasectomy is a big commitment, and one potential problem associated with having the surgery is that you may later wish to father a child. Vasectomy reversal surgery can allow you to become fertile again, but this surgery doesn’t always work.
Success rates can vary depending on factors such as the number of years since you’ve had the vasectomy – the longer it has been, the more difficult it may be to reverse. Reversal surgery is a more complicated procedure than a vasectomy, but it may be more cost-effective than other conception methods.
Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversal in Phoenix, AZ
If you want permanent, cost-effective male birth control, Ironwood Urology is here to serve you. We perform no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy procedures which offer minimal pain and a quick recovery.
To find out more or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Desi Avila, call Ironwood Urology today at (480) 961-2323 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your men’s healthcare partner.
