Vasectomy has been a popular medical practice that has gained the attention of many couples. This is because, at times, couples reach a point where they decide not to have children. In other instances, it could be a matter of preference. Whatever the case, there are birth control methods like condoms accessible if a person is certain that they do not want to become parents. However, condom failure rates are widely known. An effective solution in such cases is a vasectomy.
Vasectomy: A Form of Birth Control
The greatest method of birth control for men is still vasectomy. Severing or sealing the tubes, also known as the vas deferens, is a surgical procedure to stop the passage of sperm. With an efficacy rate of more than 99%, this form of birth control is the most dependable. Although, care should be taken during the early weeks after surgery as the semen may still carry the sperm.
System of Male Reproduction
Let's start with the fundamentals of the male reproductive system to better comprehend how a vasectomy works.
The testes are where the sperm's journey starts. They also go through passageways that resemble tubes called vas deferens.
The seminal vesicles and prostate gland fluids mingle with the sperm as they leave the vas and move toward the urethra (in the penis). As a result, it creates semen or ejaculate.
Vasectomy Procedure
Usually, two techniques are used to execute a vasectomy. These are what they are:
Conventional approach: A small cut is made on either side of the scrotum during the surgical operation. Once found, the vas deferens tubes are then gently tugged upward. These tubes are cut, and some tissue pieces are taken out. Later, they are stitched, heated, or sealed with clips. Following the sealing, the incision on the scrotum is also stitched.
Non-Scalpel Method: Using a clamp, the vas deferens are identified and maintained in place using this method. After that, the scrotum is punctured with a sharp object.
The events that follow closely follow the conventional technique. The benefit is that the hole heals quickly and doesn't require stitches.
The effects of a vasectomy
During the vasectomy, the vas deferens, which is the sperm pathway, are blocked. Therefore, even though sperm are generated, they are unable to enter the urethra. As a result, there is no sperm in the ejaculating semen.
However, the testes still produce sperm. They are however absorbed into the tissue because there isn't any ejaculation.
Additionally, with time, spermatid numbers gradually decline. As a result, the generation of sperm and their absorption or storage approach equilibrium.
Risks after a Vasectomy
Infection and bleeding
Studies have linked the surgical procedure to an increased risk of bleeding and infection. For instance, compared to traditional surgery, a non-scalpel vasectomy carries lower chances of infection and hematoma. The clipping method also carries less danger than cautery.
Syndrome of Post-Vasectomy Pain
It alludes to severe post-vasectomy pain that obstructs daily activities. However, the first several days following surgery are frequently painful. However, one in a thousand men experience long-term pain syndrome, which calls for surgery.
Granulomas of sperm
Usually, it happens two to three weeks following the operation. Additionally, it happens as a result of the extravasated sperm. It is preferable to delay ejaculation for at least a week following a vasectomy to lower the risk of granulomas.
In some circumstances, it can result in the closure of the tubes (vas deferens), which would make surgery unsuccessful.
Psychiatric problems
In addition to the physical characteristics, some vasectomized men also sense regret. It can be due to males starting new relationships after ending prior ones, or it might be due to men wanting to have children later in life.
Regret may also be influenced by other elements, such as worries about suffering and dwindling masculinity. It is therefore better to proceed with a vasectomy only when you are very certain about your decisions.
Myths about Vasectomy
Limits Sex Drive - First off, vasectomy does not affect testosterone. It is therefore unlikely to have an impact on sexual urges.
Cardiovascular issues - No association has been found between cardiac issues and vasectomy in studies involving different populations.
Autoimmune disorders - Even after a 13-year average follow-up period, research on vasectomized males reveals no substantial immune-based problems.
Careful Measures After a Vasectomy
In the first several weeks following a vasectomy, you can have pain in your scrotum. On the other hand, if discomfort becomes intolerable, you may be prescribed medications on the advice of medical experts.
Additionally, consider taking two to three days off. Avoid playing sports or lifting large stuff.
The sperm often separates from the semen around three months. Therefore, it is recommended to utilize additional methods of contraception until your semen tests come back negative.
Also, keep up with your hygiene and support your scrotum with the right undergarments.
Conclusion
Many men throughout the world use vasectomy as a safe method of long-term fertility control.
Given its permanence, it is advisable to choose a vasectomy only after careful consideration. Although there are reversal methods, one should not rely on them.
The vas deferens are divided during the vasectomy process to cut off the sperm route. As a result, when a vasectomized man ejaculates, the sperm does not combine with the semen. Despite common misconceptions, studies demonstrate there is no connection between cardiac problems and sexual dysfunction.
The decision of a man to get a vasectomy or not is entirely personal. But if one chooses to do so, following the rules is essential to preventing problems.
Article by: Sameena
Edited by: Puneet Kapani