Category: Vasectomy

Embarking on a vasectomy reversal journey is no small decision. For one, vasectomy reversals are costly and typically not covered by insurance (unlike the original vasectomy); second, the microsurgical surgical process is intricate and takes quite some time – three to four hours. Lastly, there are no guarantees that a vasectomy reversal will work, though over 90% of vasectomy reversals within ten years of the original vasectomy produce sperm in the ejaculate. This, of course, doesn’t guarantee pregnancy. With all that said, when a man decides to have the vasectomy reversal, he is typically very motivated. One of the top-of-mind questions is “When can we start to try for a pregnancy,” and “How long will it take to get pregnant?”

Of course, these two questions are quite different in that the former relies on the recovery time from surgery while the latter is based on good timing, a bit of luck, and the couple’s fertility status. Let’s dive in.

Continue reading “How Long After a Vasectomy Reversal Can You Expect to Get Pregnant?” →

Vasectomy is a safe, effective, and permanent method of male sterilization. Despite its widespread use, numerous misconceptions and myths surround this procedure. These misconceptions often deter men from considering a vasectomy. In this article, we aim to debunk some of the most common myths about vasectomies. By separating fact from fiction, we hope to clarify and enable men to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

Myth 1: Vasectomy Is Immediately Effective

While vasectomy is an effective contraceptive method, it does not immediately render a man infertile. After undergoing a vasectomy, sperm will initially remain within the reproductive tract, which can potentially lead to pregnancy. It takes time and several ejaculations to fully clear the remaining sperm from the vas deferens and seminal vesicles. Men should continue using contraception until follow-up semen analysis in the office 8 to 16 weeks postoperatively demonstrates no sperm. Before this testing, men should perform at least 10 to 20 ejaculations.

Myth 2: Vasectomy Is Irreversible

Contrary to popular belief, vasectomy is not always irreversible. While the procedure is intended to be permanent, options are available for men who later decide to father children.
It is possible to restore fertility through a procedure called a vasectomy reversal, which is performed microscopically. Surveys suggest 2 to 6% of vasectomized men will ultimately seek reversal. It is important to know that this surgery is often expensive and not covered by insurance.

Myth 3: Vasectomy Is Painful

Many men avoid vasectomy for fear of pain and discomfort during the procedure. However, vasectomy is a relatively quick and straightforward surgical procedure. Most vasectomies are performed using local anesthesia, which numbs the area and significantly reduces pain. The process typically takes 15-30 minutes and involves making a small incision in the scrotum to access the vas deferens. Some men may experience mild discomfort or soreness post-surgery, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.

Myth 4: Vasectomy Increases the Risk of Prostate Cancer

In the past, men with vasectomies were believed to have a greater risk of developing prostate cancer. However, numerous studies have investigated this association, and the overall scientific evidence does not support a causal link between vasectomy and prostate cancer.

Myth 5: Sex Will Not Be as Pleasurable After a Vasectomy

Many men express concern that undergoing a vasectomy will reduce their sexual pleasure. However, it’s important to understand that vasectomy only interrupts the delivery of sperm during ejaculation. Vasectomy does not affect any of the nerves in the penis, so sensitivity or pleasure will remain unchanged. It also does not affect testosterone production, libido, or the ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Further, the freedom from worrying about unplanned pregnancies may make sex even more pleasurable for both partners.

Myth 6: Men Who Undergo Vasectomy Ejaculate Less

It is a common misconception that a vasectomy will reduce a man’s semen volume. However, the testicles contribute only about 5% of your semen volume. The remaining 95% is produced by the prostate and seminal vesicles, unaffected by a vasectomy.

Vasectomy remains a highly effective and reliable option for men seeking permanent sterilization. We hope to encourage men to make informed decisions about their reproductive health by dispelling common myths surrounding vasectomies. Men considering a vasectomy must consult a healthcare professional who can provide personalized information and address concerns.

Many men choose to undergo a vasectomy for several reasons, not least of which is that tubal ligation in women is more complex and permanent; however, surgery on such a delicate part of the body can be fear-provoking and make even the strongest of men second guess their decision. It’s also crucial that men understand they may have very strong emotions, both before and after the procedure, including mild depression or anxiety. These are perfectly normal and should not be hidden or suppressed. Speaking to your men’s health specialist or even a counselor can be very beneficial in working through these feelings.

However, to put your mind at ease, know that vasectomies have become routine, and men who believe it is their best option for the future should not be overly concerned.

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It is estimated that about 8% of men who have a vasectomy will ultimately look to have it reversed. When you consider that 500,000 vasectomies are performed every year, this is a large number. While a vasectomy is a very straightforward procedure, reversing it is far more intricate, requiring experience and surgical skill. Indeed, Dr. Kapadia can reconnect the tubes (or vas deferens) that carry sperm from the testicles, using microscopic surgical technology.

Continue reading “The Reasons for Vasectomy Reversal, What It Entails, and Will It Work?” →