FIRST CONSIDERATIONS
Vasectomy should be considered permanent and irreversible. Most vasectomies can be reversed by removing the scar tissue and reconnecting the healthy vas ends, but it’s expensive and not always successful. Getting sperm flowing again isn’t the problem, but for some unknown reason their ability to fertilize diminishes with time elapsed. Reversal within the first three years has about a 70% chance of successful pregnancy. By ten years out, this drops to a 30% success rate, so vasectomy reversal is not to be relied on.
This is why you should be positive you never wish to sire any more children before you have a vasectomy.
The following demographics are at high risk of regretting their vasectomy later:
- Single
- Under 30
- Never had children
- Recently separated, divorced or in an unstable relationship
Those with a newborn should consider postponing vasectomy until the baby is at least 6 months old, since that’s when the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS or Crib Death) is greatest, about 1 per 1000 births.
Sperm Cryopreservation (a.k.a. Pre-Vasectomy Sperm Banking) is “insurance” every man should consider. It is not a guarantee of future fertility but it may be a good idea if you ever want another child later (and a small waste of money if you don’t).
This service is provided at Genesis Fertility Centre (tel: 604-879-3032). $300 is the cost of processing the sample and storing it for the first two years, after which storage can be renewed as you wish for about $100 per year. One specimen usually suffices. That yields about 8 to 12 “straws”, each of which provides for one attempt at artificial insemination (AI), or, if AI doesn’t work in the first few straws, in-vitro fertilization (IVF).
SEX AFTER VASECTOMY
A vasectomy has no direct bearing on sexual function. No better. No worse. The ability to obtain and maintain erections is unchanged. Since sperm comprise only 2% of the semen volume there is no noticeable change in the quantity or quality of the semen ejaculated. You’re like a Sunkist orange, all juice and no seeds. The force and timing of ejaculation are unchanged. No effect on testosterone levels, desire or libido occurs. Many couples report a more relaxed and enjoyable sex life once the fear of pregnancy is gone, particularly once condoms are no longer required, but that is true of anything that takes the worry out of being close. Marriage problems are rarely cured by vasectomy. A couple’s sexual problems, low desire or sexual avoidance may stem from fear of pregnancy, but stress, children, fatigue or poor communication can be at play as well. It would be wise to discuss these issues with your partner and your doctor and address them before the vasectomy, just to ensure you are not disappointed later because of unrealistic expectations.
Vasectomy does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or AIDS. Condoms are therefore still required for sexually risky behavior.