When Is The Right Time To Get A Vasectomy?

A vasectomy may seem like a permanent fix to most men as it shuts the door on having any or more children. The truth is, that is not the whole story. Half a million men decide to have a vasectomy each year in the US. The decision begins with when is the right time to get a vasectomy and more importantly, is it right for you?

What Happens During A Vasectomy

It only takes a few short minutes to perform a vasectomy. The two tubes which carry sperm are sealed off making it impossible for sperm to reach the semen when it is ejaculated from the penis.

Although your body continues to make sperm after a vasectomy, it is naturally absorbed by the body. Whether it is performed in your doctor’s office or a hospital setting, it is the most effective means of preventing pregnancy short of abstinence. Recovery time is limited and within 24 to 72 hours you are back to your normal activities.

About 8 to 12 weeks afterward, Louisiana Healthcare Associates Urology Division will test your semen to determine the effectiveness of the procedure.

Starting With The “Why”

Every man who makes the decision to have a vasectomy has different reasons. Maybe you already had all the children you desire, maybe you don’t want to have any at all, or maybe right now, you think this is best for you. Consider all the alternatives.

Many times your partner encourages you. Perhaps she has medical conditions not conducive to having children. It could be one or both of you has genetic disorders which can be passed to your children. All of these reasons are very personal and should be considered at length.

Some Good News

Some men worry that having a vasectomy will ultimately change their manliness. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Here are but a few positive outcomes of a vasectomy:

• A vasectomy does not hurt nor does it keep you from your normal activities for a long time. Within a week, you can return to exercise, and you can return to work in a few days.
• A vasectomy does not affect your sex drive!
• Your sperm count will gradually decrease for approximately two months, and you can enjoy sex without any worry of pregnancy issues.
• A vasectomy is safe and effective, so no worries.

If you decide in a few years you have made a mistake or your life changes, a vasectomy can be reversed. It is more expensive and is not always effective, but you do have the option.