Vasectomies are an important but often overlooked part of men’s healthcare. This minor surgical procedure is relatively low-risk but highly effective in preventing pregnancy. In fact, vasectomies are considered greater than 99% effective as a form of birth control. Let’s break down what a vasectomy is, the benefits of this procedure, and common misconceptions surrounding it so you can schedule your appointment with confidence.
What is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a procedure that stops sperm from leaving the body. The procedure blocks the ends of the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm. Many doctors perform no needle and no scalpel vasectomies, making the surgery easier and less painful than ever. Additionally, a technique called a no-pain vasectomy allows patients to recover quickly and easily, without the use of narcotic pain-relief medications that often cause unpleasant side effects.
The Benefits of a Vasectomy
There are many benefits of getting a vasectomy. For example, the procedure is:
- Permanent
- Highly effective in preventing pregnancy
- Low risk for complications
- Quick to recover from
- Reversible if you ever decide you want children again
Common Vasectomy Misconceptions
There are many myths surrounding vasectomies that, ultimately, hold little to no truth. Common misconceptions include:
- Sex won’t feel as good: A vasectomy does not affect any of the nerves of the penis, so there are no changes in sensitivity or pleasure. In fact, many men report enjoying sex more because they don’t have to worry about impregnating their partner.
- Vasectomies lower testosterone: Vasectomies do not stop sperm from being produced. Instead, the procedure prevents sperm from mixing with the ejaculate. There is no scientific evidence that vasectomies lower testosterone levels.
- Vasectomies cause erectile dysfunction: An erection occurs due to good blood flow to the penis. A vasectomy procedure is not performed in that area. Therefore, blood flow is maintained, and patients do not have to worry about erectile function.
- Vasectomies can cause prostate cancer: Vasectomies are in-office, low-risk procedures, and there is no link connecting them to prostate cancer.
Schedule Your Vasectomy Today
The thought of undergoing any medical procedure, particularly one involving a sensitive part of the body, can be intimidating. Nevertheless, a vasectomy is a fast and effective procedure with minimal risk of complications. Thanks to advancements such as no-needle and no-scalpel vasectomies, the procedure is usually less painful, less risky, and has a quicker recovery time compared to a traditional vasectomy.
Vasectomies are vital to men’s health care and are a responsible choice, giving patients and their partners permanent peace of mind. At San Diego Vasectomy Center, our expert surgeon, Dr. Martin Bastuba, specializes in no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomies. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
