5 Factors to Consider Before Getting a Vasectomy

5 Factors to Consider Before Getting a Vasectomy

Are you thinking about getting a vasectomy? It’s a simple procedure that cuts your vas deferens tubes to prevent sperm from mixing with semen, and it’s one of the most reliable methods of permanent birth control available.

No-scalpel vasectomies at Advanced Urology are safe and effective — but our team understands that getting a vasectomy is a highly personal decision. And we’re here to help you figure out if it’s the best choice for you.

Here are the questions you should ask yourself before scheduling your vasectomy:

1. Do you want children in the future?

Vasectomy is a permanent method of birth control. The procedure stops sperm from mixing with your semen, and without sperm, you’re infertile.

That means the most important thing to consider before getting a vasectomy is whether you want children in the future. If you’re absolutely certain you don’t want the option of fathering a child, then a vasectomy is a safe and simple way to prevent pregnancy. If you’re not sure whether you want to have a child in the future, then a vasectomy may not be the best choice for you.

2. What is your relationship status?

Your relationship status could affect your decision to get a vasectomy in several ways. If you’re in a committed, long-term relationship, it’s important to discuss vasectomy with your partner. Since it’s a permanent method of birth control, you should make sure you’re both in agreement about not having children in the future.

On the other hand, not all men who get vasectomies are in relationships. If you’re currently single, think about how vasectomy might impact future relationships. Maybe you want to avoid accidental pregnancy with future partners, and a vasectomy is a good choice for you. Maybe you want the option to have a baby when you meet the right person later on, and you decide to wait.

3. Do you have health factors that make vasectomy the best choice?

For some women, pregnancy is very risky and can even be life-threatening. For others, hormonal birth control causes severe symptoms that interfere with daily life. And since vasectomy is a safe, effective way to avoid pregnancy, some couples choose it because it’s the best way to protect the woman’s health while still maintaining an active sex life.

4. Do you know what to expect after the procedure?

Vasectomy is a simple, in-office procedure. It takes just a few minutes, but a recovery period is required — and more importantly, vasectomies don’t prevent pregnancy right away.

Take a few days to rest following your vasectomy. We give you instructions for recovery, which typically includes using ice packs and wearing supportive underwear for a few days. 

It’s safe to start having sex within about two days, but your semen still contains sperm for about two months after getting a vasectomy. You must use other methods of birth control during this time. Our team performs semen analyses in the weeks after your vasectomy, and once we confirm that sperm is absent, you can stop using other contraceptives.

5. Is there a chance you’ll want to reverse your vasectomy?

You should only get a vasectomy if you’re sure you don’t want to father a child in the future. But, it’s no secret that life is unpredictable. If you had a vasectomy and you’ve changed your mind, vasectomies can be reversed.

Our team performs microscopic vasectomy reversal, which is one of the most reliable ways to reverse the procedure — even if it was done years ago. The efficacy of vasectomy reversal depends on a handful of factors, like your age and overall health, so talk to our team about your options.

Still have questions about getting a vasectomy? Want to find out if the procedure is a good option for you? We’re here to help. Advanced Urology has offices in Los Angeles, Culver City, Redondo Beach, and San Pedro, California. Call the location nearest you or send us a message online now.

You Might Also Enjoy...

How Does Biofeedback Address Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Pelvic floor dysfunction is painful, uncomfortable, and embarrassing — but it’s also treatable. Find out how biofeedback therapy can evaluate your condition and help relieve your symptoms, without the need for invasive treatments.

Do I Have Kidney Stones or a UTI? How To Tell the Difference

Maybe you have sharp abdominal pain. Or maybe you’ve noticed a burning sensation when you urinate. Now, you’re wondering what’s wrong. Learn the tell-tale signs of kidney stones and urinary tract infections — and how to tell the difference.

What You Need to Know Before Having a Vasectomy

Vasectomies are a popular method of male birth control. The procedure is safe and effective — but it’s also permanent, which means you need to be sure about your decision. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a vasectomy.

Pain When Urinating: 3 Reasons Why

Urination is one of the ways your body eliminates waste. You probably don’t think much about it — unless you experience pain or burning when you pee. Pain when urinating could be a sign of an underlying condition; here’s what to do about it.

Most Men Miss These Signs of Prostate Problems

Have you found it difficult to urinate lately? Are you bothered by the frequent urge to urinate? These aren’t just symptoms of getting older — they could indicate prostate problems. Learn the signs and find the care you need here.