A vasectomy is one of the most popular forms of male birth control, with about 500,000 procedures performed every year in the U.S., according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). The procedure entails cutting and sealing the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the semen, and it’s designed to prevent conception during sexual intercourse. But what are the pros and cons of this option? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a procedure for male birth control. It entails cutting and sealing the tubes that carry the sperm from the testicles to the semen. That means that ejaculations will no longer carry sperm, preventing conception during sexual intercourse. Vasectomies are common in men who have completed their family or no longer wish to father more children.
What Are The Benefits?
A vasectomy is the most reliable form of male birth control, with a failure rate that hovers around 1 percent. The procedure is quick, simple, and requires no female involvement. Plus, it doesn’t interrupt sex for either partner. And it’s one less thing to worry about for parents who are already grappling with the challenges of parenting.
Why Men Choose Vasectomies?
A vasectomy is a male birth control procedure that prevents the release of sperm from the testes. It is permanent but can be reversed if desired. Vasectomies are considered less invasive than female sterilization methods such as tubal ligation. Vasectomies may also be more effective at preventing pregnancy than many other birth control methods for males, including condoms and withdrawal.
How Much Does It Cost?
A vasectomy can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000. It’s important to note that the cost of vasectomy will depend on where you live, your age, and even whether or not you have health insurance. Additionally, if you choose to have this procedure done at a doctor’s office or in a clinic setting it will most likely be less expensive than if you were to go through with a hospital visit.
If you’re opting for out-of-pocket payment then expect to pay at least $200 for the surgery itself.
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How Safe Is It?
The mastopexy procedure is usually performed as outpatient surgery, meaning you can go home on the same day. It’s also generally a safe procedure with very few risks. Common side effects include pain in the scrotum, swelling, dizziness, bleeding from the incision site, or bruising. You may also experience pain during ejaculation or while passing urine. These side effects are temporary and should go away within three to six weeks.
FAQs On Getting a Vasectomy
- What are the benefits of getting a vasectomy?
A vasectomy will reduce your chances of spreading STDs, it is more effective than female birth control methods, you can have unprotected sex without worrying about pregnancy, and if you change your mind you can have the procedure reversed in most cases. - What are the risks associated with vasectomies?
There is a risk that scarring from surgery could affect sperm production after the procedure, though this isn’t common. There is also a risk that you could develop an infection at the site where sperm exits the body which could lead to infertility or chronic pain if not treated promptly. - Who should get a vasectomy?