Whether you are certain you don’t want children at all or your family is now the perfect size, you
might start thinking about the convenience of a vasectomy. How long until sterile, how reliable, and what are the
risks are common questions, as well as how exactly does it work? Careful research in advance of a major medical
decision such as this will help to ensure you make the best choice for your lifestyle.
What is a Vasectomy?
In order for a woman to become pregnant, the egg inside her must be fertilized by sperm from her partner.
Sperm is added to the other substances that make up male semen, after it is created in the testicles. A vasectomy
permanently severs and seals the passages that allow sperm to enter the semen, which means that when you ejaculate,
there will still be semen, but it will not have any of the sperm that can lead to pregnancy.
Is Vasectomy the Right Choice for You?
Vasectomy is intended as a permanent form of birth control, and while reversal is possible, you can’t
count on it as a future option. If you are considering a vasectomy, give yourself time to think it over, talk with
your partner, and honestly answer these questions:
- Are you absolutely certain you don’t want (more) children? If there is any chance that you could
want to be a father, even ten or fifteen years from now, do not move forward. Changing your mind later can lead to
deep regret, if your sterilization cannot be undone.
- Does Your Partner Agree? This decision impacts both you and your mate, so it is critical to
have her support. If she wants children or might in the future, your relationship might depend on putting off such
a permanent choice until you both see eye to eye.
Why a Vasectomy?
Many men find vasectomy an attractive option when they are sure they don’t want any or any more children.
Once they determine after vasectomy, how long until sterile, they are attracted to the peace of mind of not
worrying about birth control. Of all available options, vasectomy offers these benefits:
 It works.The procedure is close to 100%
successful in eliminating the possibility of pregnancy - better odds than popular options like birth control
pills and condoms, which must be used correctly every single time in order to be effective.
It’s easy. Unlike sterilization procedures
available to women, vasectomy is a speedy surgery performed on an outpatient basis. Very few men have any
significant issue with side effects or complications, and recovery time is relatively quick.
It’s cheap. Birth control products and medications
can cost big bucks over the course of a lifetime, and female tubal ligation (getting “tubes tied”) is an
expensive proposition – even with insurance. Vasectomy is comparatively inexpensive, and it is certainly far
more convenient.
What is the Downside?
Men considering the procedure are often concerned with the risks, and the first question they ask about
vasectomy after how long until sterile is what the downside is. As with any major or minor surgery, there are side
effects just afterwards and during the recovery period.
Swelling & Bruising. As with any physical
trauma, you might see swelling of your scrotum and along with some black and blue bruises. While
uncomfortable, you normally will not feel severe pain, and your doctor will recommend medication for the
relief of any discomfort.
Blood Clots & Bleeding. Both
major and minor surgeries often lead to a small amount of bleeding, as well as the potential for blood clots.
These are normal, and your physician will give you specific instructions on how to handle and when to seek
assistance for unusually severe cases.
Blood During Ejaculation. While it looks alarming,
the small amount of blood that might appear in semen after a vasectomy is temporary and not a cause for
concern. Again, your urologist will let you know what to expect and when the amount would be enough to return
for examination.
Infection. Incisions attract
bacteria, especially in this sensitive spot, so infections are a frequent side effect of this surgery. After
care instructions will include detailed information on keeping the site clean and whether antibiotics are
recommended. While unusual, small infections can get more serious, so don’t ignore warning signs of a larger
problem developing.
What Don’t You Have to Worry About?
Of course you are most interested in how long until sterile during vasectomy research, but other common -
and unnecessary – fears include these:
Sexual Functioning. Nothing will change. This is a
crucial point. Your ability to perform sexually is not impacted in any way with a vasectomy.
Accidental Disfigurement. Permanent injury to the
groin area is extremely rare. So rare, in fact, that this concern is negligible. The chances of damage to your
reproductive system are significantly lower than your chances of winning the lottery.
Cancer. At one time, many years ago, there was
research that indicated a possible connection between vasectomies and prostate or testicular cancer. Those
studies have since been invalidated, and today’s science confirms that there is no link.
How Quickly Will It Work?
After a vasectomy, how long until sterile can be two to six months, depending on the individual. Once the
procedure is complete, your specialist will ask you to return in a couple of months. He or she will test your semen
to be sure no sperm are present. Keep in mind that the most common reason for pregnancy after vasectomy is failure
to the requisite period before having unprotected sex, and neglecting to keep the follow up appointment for
verification that it was successful.
mayoclinic.com, webmd.com,
health.nytimes.com
A Final Note
Vasectomies are an extremely effective method of birth control, but
they do not prevent sexually transmitted infections. Keep yourself and your partners safe with continued use
of condoms, the only way to protect yourself from dangerous and often incurable
illness.
 Vasectomy DFW (Dallas/Fort
Worth) - Where to Go When it Doesnt Work
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