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Does a Vasectomy Reduce a Man's Sexual Drive?
It's a natural concern, for both husband and wife. Couples
often want to know, but sometimes don't know how to ask the question. Will things
be the same - especially for the man - following a vasectomy?
Does a vasectomy effect a male sex life? The straightforward
answer to this question is a "No." A vasectomy does not reduce a man's sexual
drive or his ability to have or enjoy sex. The procedure eliminates only the
man's ability to father a child... he can still experience an erection and ejaculation
as before.
This is an excellent topic for a candid discussion between
husband and wife, and perhaps with the doctor of their choice. Some couples
are concerned about a reduced libido or sex drive, but they may be shy about
asking the question.
What they may come to discover is, once sterility is complete,
they no longer need to worry about accidental pregnancy - and that lovemaking
can be more spontaneous, more sensuous and more enjoyable than before.
A vasectomy does not effect the blood vessels or nerves
that are part of having an erection or ejaculation. Nothing physiologically
changes in that respect.
Two important cautions!
It's important to note that a man will not be sterile immediately
following a vasectomy. Talk to your doctor, who will test your semen for sperm
before you can have unprotected sex. It may take up to 20 ejaculations or more
and several weeks before your reproductive system is free of active sperm.
Another caution is that a vasectomy is not a protection
against sexually transmitted disease (STD). If you are at risk of transmitting
or acquiring an STD, you and your partner will still need the protection of
a condom or other means of protection.
So what’s the difference?
Typically, the only significant difference after a vasectomy
is that the sperm normally produced is missing from the semen. The glands that
produce semen are not changed by a vasectomy. Sperm is such a tiny portion of
the total ejaculation fluid (about 2 percent) that the change can't be noticed.
Even the color and consistency of the ejaculate are not changed.
There's no effect on "masculinity," either. The man's body
continues to produce hormones as before, and there is no change in any of the
male characteristics such as beard or voice. Testosterone continues to be produced
and released into the bloodstream. Testicles continue to manufacture sperm,
but they don't leave the body. Unused sperm are simply absorbed by the body
as normally occurs with or without a vasectomy.
In Summary:
- Talk candidly with your spouse and your doctor.
- A vasectomy will not decrease your sex drive.
- The procedure only eliminates your ability to father
a child.
- Sterility is not immediate; your doctor will need to
test you and advise.
- Vasectomy is no protection against sexually transmitted
disease (STD).
- You can still have an erection and ejaculate.
- The body continues to produce hormones.
- Male characteristics (voice, beard) are not affected.
Consider a consultation.
Find a local vasectomy doctor
Contact him/her for an appointment and get answers to your important questions.
Other Useful Articles
Risks & Complications - Learn about the general risks and possible complications associated with having a vasectomy procedure.After Your Vasectomy - Be prepared for your recovery with our guide on what to expect in the days and weeks after a vasectomy surgery.What to Expect After the Procedure - You have decided to undergo a vasectomy, now it's time to prepare yourself for the recovery.Common Fears: Real & Imagined - Knowing the facts can help ease concerns about the vasectomy procedure.Alternatives - Find out how the vasectomy procedure compares with alternative methods of contraception available today.
Visit our Site Map to see everything about the vasectomy procedure that our site has to offer.
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