Common Fears: Real and Imagined
The idea of having a vasectomy can raise fears - both
real and imagined - about the procedure and what to expect. While apprehension
can be common, the best answers are always found in knowing the facts.
In seeking a specialist's opinion, couples are well-advised
to query a board-certified urologist or family practioner who speaks to couples
openly about their concerns. Education and communication are among a doctor's
best tools… and every couple should to ask their doctor about the fears they
may have in considering a vasectomy. Clear answers and quality information will
help ease, if not eliminate, many of these apprehensions.
Fear #1:
Having an operation involving the testicles is every
man's fear. To a greater or lesser degree, just about every man would rather
not have anything to do with a procedure on or near his genital region. Simply
recognizing that this fear exists is a first step.
Many men recognize that having a vasectomy could
be the best solution for their personal or family situation, and that their
short-term fear is offset by a long-term benefit for themselves and their spouse.
Having the procedure is likely to be a family decision, but it is ultimately
a significant step that the man can take to contribute to the couple's ongoing
relationship.
Other men may balance their anxiety with the knowledge
and understanding that a traditional or no-scalpel vasectomy is widely used,
and is accepted as safe, simple and requires only a few minutes. It's often
a measure of comfort to the man that the vasectomy is far easier for him than
surgical options would be for his wife.
In comparison, sterilization for a woman is a more
significant operation that is more difficult for the woman than a vasectomy
is for a man. Tubal ligation is more invasive, is usually performed under general
anesthesia, can result in greater discomfort and has potentially higher risks
than a vasectomy procedure. In addition to being a more "gentle" solution for
many couples, vasectomy is also the less expensive option.
Fear of pain.
A vasectomy procedure includes a local anesthetic
that completely numbs the area. Therefore, there should be no feeling or a slight
pulling sensation during the procedure itself. Many patients report mild discomfort
for the first day or two after the anesthetic wears off. This is usually relieved
with a prescription or over-the-counter pain medication, application of ice
packs and the use of an athletic supporter.
Risk Factors.
Both the doctor and the patient will want to carefully
review all the risk factors before deciding about any procedure. A vasectomy
is regarded as both safe and simple, but as with any operation some medical
problems could result. Go over these carefully with your doctor.
Problems resulting from a vasectomy are not frequent
and are usually treated easily if they do appear. These include the possibility
of infection or swelling around the incision or inside the scrotum, bleeding
beneath the skin causing bruising or inflammation and the development of a small
lump due to a sperm leak from the vas.
The myth of lost "masculinity or libido."
The procedure has no effect on a man's sexual drive,
male characteristics, or his ability to have an erection, ejaculate or have
intercourse as before. The man's body continues to produce sperm - however,
a vasectomy prevents the sperm from leaving his body as part of his semen.
Fear of failure.
A vasectomy is one of the most reliable means to
prevent conception. (Because some sperm will remain in the man's system following
a vasectomy, the resulting sterilization is not immediate.) Once the doctor
confirms the absence of sperm, the chance of pregnancy is minimal. The risk
of a vasectomy failing - because the severed ends of the vas deferens have rejoined
to allow sperm through - is less than one percent.
Absence from work or limited activity.
Doctors often recommend that a patient rest following
the procedure and avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for two or three
days. Individuals can usually return to work within three days, and most patients
say they feel completely back to normal in about a week.
In Summary:
- Having a procedure near his testicles is a nearly
universal fear for men.
- Knowledge and understanding help balance anxiety.
- A vasectomy is considered safe, simple, fast
and highly effective.
- A vasectomy is often preferable over surgical
options for the woman.
- Discomfort following the procedure is often mild
and easily relieved.
- Rest is advised for a few days; return to work
is typically three days.
- Always discuss concerns and risk factors with
your doctor; ask questions.
Check out related pages from vasectomy.com…
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