8 Factors to Consider Before Getting a Vasectomy

Deciding to get a vasectomy is a big step, but it’s one that can provide a safe, effective, and permanent form of birth control. Vasectomies, sometimes called male sterilization, offer long-term peace of mind for men who are sure they don’t want more children. 

However, before moving forward, it’s important to understand the procedure, recovery process, and other key factors that can impact your decision.  

Below, Jaime Dodge, MD, and the Aletheia Integrative team share eight factors to consider before getting a vasectomy.

1. It’s a minor surgical procedure

A vasectomy takes just 30-60 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure here in our Lincoln, Nebraska, office. At Aletheia Integrative, we use the latest scalpel-free technology to make the process minimally invasive and low-risk. During the procedure, Dr. Dodge seals the vas deferens to prevent sperm from exiting with semen. 

We use oral and topical pain medications to help you relax, while local anesthesia keeps you comfortable during the procedure. You should plan on having a friend or family member drive you home.

2. It’s a permanent decision

A vasectomy is intended to be a permanent form of birth control, so it's important to be certain that you're done having children or that you’re okay with the possibility of never having biological children. 

While reversals are sometimes possible, they aren’t guaranteed and can be expensive and complicated.

3. Your partner’s thoughts

About 5% of all married men get vasectomies, so it makes sense that a vasectomy is often a shared decision in many relationships. 

If you’re making this decision with your partner, it’s important to have open, honest conversations with them about the procedure and what it means for your family planning. Your partner’s thoughts and feelings should be considered to make sure that both of you are comfortable with the choice.

4. The recovery process

Though in-office, scalpel-free vasectomies are minimally invasive, it's important to be prepared for some downtime. You should expect mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the days following your procedure. 

Dr. Dodge provides post-procedure instructions, which may include using ice packs, resting, and taking pain relief medication. You should avoid sexual intercourse for about a week or so.

On average, men return to work within three days, but some men may take a few additional days before they feel ready to return to normal activities. In any case, it’s important to factor in this downtime when deciding when to schedule your vasectomy. 

5. Your age

Consider your age and current family situation. If you're younger and still uncertain about having children in the future, it might be worth waiting until you're absolutely sure. 

If you already have children and are confident in your decision, a vasectomy can offer peace of mind in managing your family planning needs.

6. The emotional impact

While many men experience relief and confidence from the decision to have a vasectomy, others may struggle with the emotional aspect of permanent contraception. 

It’s important to have open discussions with your partner and Dr. Dodge about any potential psychological impacts before going forward with the procedure.

7. It doesn’t work immediately

A vasectomy is highly effective, but it doesn't work immediately. You'll need to use back-up contraception for a few months until Dr. Dodge confirms that your sperm count has dropped to zero.

You can expect to have a few follow-up appointments to make sure the vasectomy was successful. 

8. Potential risks and side effects

Like any surgery, a vasectomy carries some risks, though they’re relatively low. These can include infection, bleeding, and, in rare cases, long-term pain or complications. 

A vasectomy is generally considered 99.99% effective in preventing unwanted pregnancy and has less than a 2% risk of complications.

Schedule your consultation

If you’re considering male sterilization, call 531-333-2037 to schedule your consultation. During your appointment, Dr. Dodge discusses the procedure with you in detail, answers any questions you have, and helps determine if a vasectomy is the right choice for you.

You can also request an appointment online.